PDO
Pronunciation: pee-dee-oh
Also written as: PDO — Polydioxanone
Polydioxanone; an absorbable synthetic suture material used in thread lift procedures, known for its biocompatibility and ability to stimulate collagen production as it degrades.
Full Definition
PDO (polydioxanone) is a colourless, crystalline, absorbable polymer originally developed for surgical sutures. In aesthetic dermatology, PDO threads are inserted subdermally to mechanically lift tissues and stimulate neocollagenesis during the degradation process, which typically occurs over six to twelve months. PDO threads are available in smooth, twisted, and barbed (cog) configurations, each with different indications. Editors must expand PDO to 'polydioxanone' on first use in clinical and regulatory documents. PDO should not be conflated with PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) or PCL (polycaprolactone), which are alternative thread materials with different absorption profiles and stimulatory mechanisms.
Usage
Usage note: Expand to 'polydioxanone' on first use. Do not conflate with PLLA or PCL thread materials.
In Context
- "The procedure record specified the use of PDO (polydioxanone) cog threads, 19G × 100 mm, inserted via the temporal hairline." — Procedure note
- "Editors should not use PDO interchangeably with PLLA threads, as the two materials have distinct degradation timelines." — Editorial style note