Current concepts of absorbable fixation in first ray surgery.

Absorbable fixation has evolved from sutures and pins to screws. The current biomaterials available are polyparadiaxanone (PDS), polygycolide acid (PGA), and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA). Extensive evaluation of PDS and PGA over the last several years has identified their benefits and weaknesses in reconstructive foot surgery. Future research will focus on PLLA rods and screws as they emerge as the latest advance in the search for the ideal internal fixation device.