Which of the following is an example of a synthetic absorbable material?

Synthetic absorbable materials are designed to be used in surgical procedures and gradually break down within the body over time, being absorbed by the tissues. This characteristic is beneficial as it eliminates the need for suture removal after the healing process.

Vicryl, which is made from a copolymer of glycolic acid and lactide, is a well-known synthetic absorbable suture. It is designed to provide support during the healing period and then be absorbed by the body, usually within a few weeks. Vicryl's absorption rate is predictable, making it a popular choice among surgeons for closing tissues, especially in soft tissue surgeries.

The other materials listed are not examples of synthetic absorbable sutures. Silk is a natural non-absorbable suture, catgut is also a natural absorbable material but derived from the intestines of sheep or cattle, and PDS, while synthetic, is another type of absorbable suture that is also categorized distinctly. Thus, Vicryl stands out as the specific example of a synthetic absorbable material in this context.