Sterile surgical suture materials that are put up as pharmaceutical goods fall under heading 3006 (specifically 300610), while non-sterile or retail-packaged sutures and similar wound-closure articles belong in 3005 under subheading 300590. The sterility standard and the specific pharmaceutical-goods note in Chapter 30 are the key classification dividers.

Most articles in 3005 — including adhesive bandages, gauze, and wound dressings — are regulated by FDA as Class I or Class II medical devices. Impregnated dressings containing a drug substance may trigger a combination-product determination. Importers should verify device registration and, where required, 510(k) clearance with FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health prior to shipment.