Comparative Study of Vicryl Versus Chromic Catgut for Mediolateral Episiotomy Repair: A Prospective Randomized Study

Background: Episiotomy remains a commonly performed obstetric procedure, particularly in primigravidas and assisted vaginal deliveries.Appropriate perineal repair is essential to reduce postpartum morbidity.The choice of suture material plays a key role in postoperative pain, wound healing, and maternal satisfaction.This study compared Vicryl and Chromic Catgut for short-term maternal outcomes following mediolateral episiotomy repair.Methods: This prospective randomized comparative study included 200 women who underwent mediolateral episiotomy after normal vaginal delivery at Basaveshwara Medical College and Hospital, Chitradurga, between March 2023 and March 2025.Participants were randomly allocated to Vicryl (n=100) or Chromic Catgut (n=100) groups.Episiotomy repair was performed using standard mattress or continuous suturing techniques.Postpartum pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and wound healing was evaluated using the REEDA scale at 24-48 hours, 3-5 days, and 6 weeks postpartum.Results: Women in the Vicryl group experienced significantly lower pain scores at all follow-up intervals compared to the Chromic Catgut group (p