Quantifying suture tension of corneal sutures with the suture forceps with strain gauge strips

Abstract

To achieve uniform tensions on corneal stiches a modified tying forceps was developed. This forceps provides the possibility to measure the tension which is put to a nylon thread (10-0) by means of surface mounted strain gauges detecting the forceps jaws' bending. The results are registered and displayed electronically. To obtain a preselected tension, a limit value switch and a tare unit is used. A first series of registrations showed reproduceable values and confirmed a linear correlation between forceps jaw bending and traction force. A prototype and possibilities of technical improvement are demonstrated.