Catgut is a type of natural, absorbable suture made from collagen taken from the submucosa of the small intestine of ruminants. It is a twisted polyfilament suture but has a monofilament appearance. The resorption is done by phagocytosis for a fast resorption time and a uniform resorption.

Catgut is used for sutures and ligatures in general surgery, gynecology, obstetrics, urology, gastrointestinal surgery and even ophthalmic surgery.

However, it is not suitable for cardiovascular and neurosurgery. Furthermore, its use should be avoided when long tissue support is required and in patients whose healing may be delayed. Care should also be taken not to use it in cases of tissue infection and in cases of allergy to collagen and chromium.