I believe there are different strengths of dissolving suture. In Dr. Heideman's case it was only a few days and Dr. Mayfield kept saying: "Just a few more days", meaning until they dissolve and he can publish the research. So the suture should not have dissolved yet according to Mayfield's remark.

I agree with you about leaving the dissolving suture in the body. There was no reason to remove it. He should have just reinforced the heart valve with real suture. It's strange that the assistant was watching Mayfield and didn't notice one false move. How did Mayfield get the old suture out and put it in his pocket?

Yes, I also always wondered how Mayfield got the suture out and kept it out of sight while he was being so closely watched by the assistant and also by Columbo from above the operating room.