Ethicon JB978H 0 Coated VICRYL 1X36" CTXB 48mm ETHIGUARD Blunt Point BX/36 • Model: JB978H • Brand: Coated VICRYL • Suture Size: 0 • Length: 1X36" • Color: Undyed • Material/Composition: Polyglactin 910 • Absorbable • Needle Name: CTXB • Needle Color: Silver • Needle Length: 48mm • Needle Point Type: ETHIGUARD Blunt Point • Specialty: N/A The JB978H suture from Ethicon is a sterile, synthetic absorbable suture combining the properties of polyglactin 910 in a coated, braided form. As a size 0 suture with a 36-inch length, it is suited for medium to more robust tissue closures where absorbable support is needed. The undyed coloration reduces any potential for pigmentation in more superficial or cosmetically sensitive closures, while still retaining sufficient handling and visibility for the surgeon. One of the distinguishing features of JB978H is its ETHIGUARD blunt point needle (CTXB, ½ circle, 48 mm). Rather than having a sharp cutting edge, the blunt tip is intended to reduce the risk of inadvertent cutting or trauma when passing through delicate or vulnerable tissues—especially useful in areas where inadvertent laceration of adjacent structures must be minimized. The braided and coated nature of the suture helps with smooth passage through tissue with minimal drag, while still offering good knot security. Over time in vivo, the JB978H suture gradually loses tensile strength and is resorbed by hydrolysis, with complete absorption generally occurring between 56 and 70 days. This temporal profile allows it to support healing during the early phases, then gradually relinquish the mechanical load to regenerated tissue. Its characteristics make it a good choice in many soft tissue surgical settings—particularly where a blunt-needle approach is preferred to minimize tissue trauma.