Covidien CS-425 Sofsilk 1 1X30" GS-21 Wax Coated Braided Silk BX/36 • Model: CS-425 • Brand: Sofsilk • Suture Size: 1 • Suture Length: 30" • Color: Black • Material/Composition: Wax Coated Braided Silk • Non-Absorbable • Needle Name: GS-21 • Needle Color: Silver • Needle Length: 37mm • Needle Point Type: Taper Point The Sofsilk CS‑425 is a classic wax-coated braided silk suture favored for its excellent handling properties, knot security, and reliability in soft tissue repair. The wax coating helps reduce capillarity (i.e., the tendency for fluid to wick along fibers) and allows the suture to slide more smoothly through tissue, while still maintaining the braided structure that gives good knot-holding characteristics. The black coloration gives good contrast in many surgical fields, making it easier for the surgeon to see and manipulate, especially in deeper or smaller access areas. In use, the GS‑21 taper point needle is particularly suited for passing through delicate or vascular tissues with controlled penetration and reduced trauma. Because the suture is nonabsorbable, it remains in place indefinitely unless removed, which is appropriate when long-term tensile strength is needed or when the suture may need to stay permanently (e.g. in some cardiovascular or ophthalmic repairs). Its braided silk construction provides a compromise between flexibility, ease of handling, and knot security that many surgeons appreciate. From a workflow standpoint, having 36 sutures per box provides good supply for operating rooms or specialty surgical suites. Because the suture is sterile and individually packaged, it simplifies intraoperative use. While silk is somewhat more reactive than synthetic nonabsorbables over the very long term, its handling and knotting qualities often make it a preferred choice in many general and specialty surgical fields. As with all sutures, proper technique, gentle tissue handling, and knot security are essential to optimize outcomes and minimize complications.