A sterile, single-strand (monofilament), synthetic, bioabsorbable thread derived from poly-4-hydroxybutyrate [a material isolated from prokaryotic cells using recombinant deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) technology] intended to join (approximate) the edges of a soft-tissue wound or incision by stitching, or to ligate soft tissues; it may include an attached needle intended to be disposed of after single use. The thread provides temporary wound support until the wound sufficiently heals to withstand normal stress, and is subsequently absorbed by hydrolysis. This is a single-use device.