Absorbable Monofilament Suture Research Articles

Comparative strength of ligature points achieved by various surgical knot-tying techniques: an observational study using Maxon™ monofilament sutures.

Surgical knot-tying requires careful selection of the appropriate technique for optimal outcomes; however, evidence is lacking about the common ligation techniques combining square and slip knots (combination knots). This study investigates the strength of a combination knot, compared with other techniques. In this observational cohort study, we assessed the strengths of square, slip-granny, slip-reef, and combination knots using absorbable monofilament sutures, and compared them using ANOVA and a multilevel linear regression analysis. We also assessed the correlation between the number of throws and knot strength using Spearman's correlation analysis. Among 80 ligatures, ANOVA indicated significant differences in knot strength among the techniques (p < 0.01). Multilevel linear regression showed that a combination knot was stronger than a slip knot (p < 0.01) and comparable to a square knot (p = 0.0721). Secondary analysis indicated that for combination knots, five throws could achieve sufficient knot strength. Combination knots are as strong as square knots and stronger than slip knots, and thus present a reasonable option for surgical ligation.

816. BRONCHIAL INJURY AND REPAIR DURING MINIMALLY INVASIVE ESOPHAGECTOMY

Abstract Background Video Assisted Thoracoscopy (VATS) is the preferred approach to Esophagectomy thanks to the improved short term outcomes without any compromise on the oncological outcomes. VATS Esophagectomy is technically difficult and has a steep learning curve, with several potential complications. Description This is the video of a patient with early esophageal cancer (T1N0M0) who underwent VATS esophagectomy in the semi-prone position with capnothorax. There was an inadvertent injury to the membranous wall of the left bronchus which was sutured using monofilament absorbable sutures. The omentum was wrapped around and sutured to the anterior wall of the stomach tube, which reinforced the sutures once it was pulled up into the thorax. Patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Importance This video, apart from stressing on the need for careful dissection around the bronchial tree, shows that such an injury can be managed with minimal invasive techniques. https://1drv.ms/v/s!AmL6SI2dDeQVh9AzGMuncYi8GT3nIQ?e=IcjfNd

Traumatic lateral patellar luxation in a dog

AbstractA 2‐year‐old, female, entire, German shepherd dog presented for investigation of non‐weight‐bearing right hindlimb lameness following a suspected road traffic accident 1 day prior. Orthopaedic examination confirmed right lateral patellar luxation. Stifle radiographs revealed normal patella positioning with stifle joint effusion and periarticular soft tissue swelling. A surgical approach to the stifle was performed via a craniomedial parapatellar incision. A 10 cm proximodistal tear was present in the medial retinacular muscular fascia, vastus medialis, medial parapatellar fibrocartilage and joint capsule. The soft tissues were meticulously reconstructed using absorbable monofilament sutures. Surgical repair of the traumatised medial soft tissues allowed for complete resolution of the traumatic lateral patellar luxation. Moderate right hindlimb lameness persisted immediately postoperatively and improved to only a mild lameness before discharge (4 days postoperatively). The dog returned to normal exercise, with no lameness or postoperative complications reported at short‐ or long‐term follow‐up (42 and 424 days, respectively).

Right Lower Sleeve Lobectomy: Detailed Technique and Perioperative Patient Management.

This report reviews our experience with right lower sleeve lobectomy and describes our technique and approach to perioperative patient management. We retrospectively reviewed 11 patients who underwent right lower sleeve lobectomy for lung cancer. Surgical techniques and perioperative management were also investigated. Bronchoplasty was performed using 4-0 absorbable monofilament sutures. The deepest portion was anastomosed using continuous sutures; interrupted sutures were used for the more superficial portions. The truncus intermedius and right middle lobe bronchus should be anastomosed in a natural position. Anastomosis patency was confirmed using intraoperative bronchoscopy. Separation of the right upper and middle lobes and pericardiotomy at the inferior edge of the superior pulmonary vein are useful for mobilizing the right middle lobe. Death during hospitalization and treatment-related death did not occur. One patient developed pneumonia, and another developed a bronchopleural fistula. We reported our technique of right lower sleeve lobectomy and our approach to perioperative patient management. Sharing knowledge is essential to completing this rare surgery.

Retrospective study of superficial wound complication comparison between monofilament absorbable versus monofilament nonabsorbable sutures for skin closure in kidney transplant

Retrospective study of superficial wound complication comparison between monofilament absorbable versus monofilament nonabsorbable sutures for skin closure in kidney transplant

149. LAPAROSCOPIC HELLER CARDIO-MYOTOMY IS NOT ALWAYS A SAFE OPERATION

Abstract Background Laparoscopic Heller cardio-myotomy is the standard surgical treatment of achalasia. Although POEM (Per-oral endoscopic myotomy) has gained wide acceptance among gastroenterologists, yet many surgeons are still loyal to this operation. One of the complications of the operation which could happen is esophageal or gastric perforation during the myotomy. Intra-operative detection of the perforation and meticulous repair is very important to prevent serious sequelae. Methods Between may 2021 and Jan 2023, 46 cases of achalasia (Type I and II) were treated by laparoscopic Heller cardio-myotomy and anti-reflux procedure (Dor or Toupet). Myotomy was performed using muscles splitting combined with either harmonic or hook diathermy. Intra-operative perforations were reported and were repaired in all cases and tested for absence of leakage. Post-operative follow up of cases having intraoperative perforations and its management were documented. For those having perforations postoperative gastrographin swallow and meal was done and oral fluids intake started second postoperative day. Results Perforations occurred in 11 cases (24%) and were repaired using 3 l0 suture: monofilament non-absorbable suture: prolene (polypropyelene, J&amp;J MedTech) in 4 cases, monofilament absorbable suture monocryl (poliglecaprone 25, J&amp;J MedTech) in 3 cases and vicryl (polyglactin 910, J&amp;J MedTech) in 4 cases. Smooth post-operative recovery was noted in 7 cases having perforations (64%). Four patients (36%) developed Leakage second postoperative day confirmed by investigations. All these cases were repaired with Vicryl. Endoscopic stent was inserted with improvement of the condition in 3 cases (75%). One patient required reoperations twice and expired in the 29th day postoperative from ARDS. Conclusion Although perforations could happen during laparoscopic Heller cardio-myotomy, it has a benign postoperative course in most cases. This doesn’t mean that it is a simple operation. Laparoscopic Heller cardio-myotomy should be done in highly specialized esophageal center because its complications could lead to death if badly managed.

Current Trends in Flexor Tendon Surgery: Results of a National Online Survey

An online survey was conducted and sent out by email to all DGH members. The questionnaire included 7 questions. Participants accessed the survey via a link. 155 hand surgeons from Germany participated in the survey. All of them answered the questionnaire in full and all questionnaires were included in the evaluation. The main question of how many strands are currently used for core suturing was answered as follows: 21% (n=32) of the 155 participants (TN) stated that they use a 2-strand suture, 53% used (n=82) a 4-strand suture and 10% used a 6-strand suture. Regarding techniques, 81 TN used the Kirchmayr-Kessler technique or a modification of it, 9 TN used the M-Tang technique, and 15 TN indicated "other technique". The question about the application of an epitendinous suture was overwhelmingly answered with "yes". Here, 98.2% agreed. Only with regard to the suture material, different opinions were found. 68% (n=106) use an absorbable monofilament suture (such as PDS). Just under a quarter (23%, n=36) use a non-absorbable monofilament suture (such as Prolene). Flexor tendon surgery has changed considerably due to intensive advances in research during the last decades. It was interesting to note in our survey that German hand surgeons have adapted their suture technique within the last years based on the results of the literature. Our results clearly show that convincing scientific data has an influence on the choice of surgical technique and that discussions about new techniques, e. g. in the context of annual meetings, may well stimulate the auditorium to rethink.

End Sigmoid Colostomy Reconstruction Using Purse-string Subcutaneous Suture via Extraperitoneal Route at the Site of a Previous Transperitoneal Loop Stoma.

We previously experienced two cases of end sigmoid colostomy reconstruction via the extraperitoneal route at the same site as the transperitoneal loop stoma. For an anterior rectus fascia, the transperitoneal route used closed intraperitoneal interrupted sutures and continuous sutures with barbed sutures. A new extraperitoneal route was established through the sutured anterior rectus sheath. Before reconstructing the end stoma, a subcutaneous purse-string with monofilament absorbable sutures tied to create an approximately 2.5 cm diameter was used. There were no early complications associated with the stoma. One year after surgery, a parastomal hernia was not defined. Using the presented technique, two cases were successfully recreated extraperitoneally at the same site's end stoma.

DS28 In search of salivation? Management of parotid duct injury following Mohs micrographic surgery

Abstract Parotid duct injury is a rare complication of cutaneous surgery usually occurring after excision of deep infiltrating tumours on the cheek. The existing literature is limited to case reports. We present our experience of two cases encountered in our unit over the last 15 years. Our first patient was an 87-year-old man referred for Mohs excision of a biopsy-confirmed morphoeic basal cell carcinoma (BCC) on his right cheek. During tumour extirpation, it was necessary to sacrifice a short section of the parotid duct. This was confirmed by direct visualization of the duct and a visible salivary leak. Immediate referral was made to the plastic surgery department, who also noted ipsilateral weakness in the distribution of the buccal branch of the facial nerve. The parotid duct was repaired over a lacrimal stent secured to his buccal mucosa. The wound was reconstructed with a large rhombic transposition flap and the parotid gland infiltrated with botulinum toxin. Four weeks later, the salivary stent had spontaneously fallen out and fresh-looking saliva was noted emerging from the parotid ampulla. Our second patient was a 65-year-old man referred for Mohs excision of a 3-cm nodular BCC on the left cheek. During tumour extirpation, a short section of the parotid duct was resected, which was clearly visible in the Mohs layer. On this occasion, the patient was referred to colleagues in the maxillofacial surgery department who attended the dermatology surgical unit. Under local anaesthesia, the parotid duct was cannulated using an epidural catheter secured both intraorally and to the residual duct using an absorbable monofilament suture (intraoperative pictures will demonstrate the technique). The Mohs defect was reconstructed with a bilobed transposition flap. Hyoscine patches were supplied to help reduce salivary flow. Marked swelling of the parotid gland developed postoperatively, which settled without further intervention. After 4 weeks, the epidural catheter was removed, and saliva was noted to be flowing from the parotid ampulla. Weakness of the lip elevators was noted in keeping with facial nerve injury. Despite the infrequency of parotid duct injury, it is important that cutaneous surgeons/Mohs surgeons are aware of how to proceed in these cases. In cases where assistance is not available from other specialties, the technique could be undertaken by an appropriately trained dermatological surgeon/Mohs surgeon using local anaesthesia.

Simple plication alleviates physical symptoms in patients with post-gestational rectus diastasis

PurposeTo evaluate our surgery for post-gestational rectus abdominis muscle diastasis using slowly absorbable monofilament suture and eight weeks of abdominal binder in terms of recurrence rate, complications, and effect on patients’ physical and cosmetic complaints.MethodIn a retrospective cohort study, all 44 patients operated between 2014 and 2020 were invited to a follow-up using ultrasound, clinical examination, and questionnaires regarding symptoms before and after surgery.Results89% of invited patients participated, with a median follow-up of 36 months. There was one recurrence caused by severe postoperative nausea and vomiting, which was the most common complication. Most procedures were safe, but two patients experienced Clavien–Dindo grade 3 complications. Patients reported feeling limited or taking precautions after surgery for a median of 8.5 months. Of all included patients, four responded that the operation did not alleviate their primary complaint. The remaining 35 patients (90%) experienced complete or partial alleviation of their primary complaints and would undergo the procedure again if needed.ConclusionPost-gestational diastasis recti can be associated with a large number of physical symptoms and functional complaints and can safely be operated using a single running plication of the anterior rectus fascia with a slowly absorbable suture, with fair cosmetic results, excellent effect on symptoms, few complications and high levels of patient satisfaction. Future research must determine which symptoms and findings should indicate surgery.

Tracheal bifurcation repair for blunt thoracic trauma in a patient with COVID-19

BackgroundTracheobronchial injury (TBI) is a rare but potentially life-threatening trauma that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. We present a case in which a patient with COVID-19 infection was successfully treated for a TBI through surgical repair and intensive care with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support.Case presentationThis is the case of a 31-year-old man transported to a peripheral hospital following a car crash. Tracheal intubation was performed for severe hypoxia and subcutaneous emphysema. Chest computed tomography showed bilateral lung contusion, hemopneumothorax, and penetration of the endotracheal tube beyond the tracheal bifurcation. A TBI was suspected; moreover, his COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction screening test was positive. Requiring emergency surgery, the patient was transferred to a private negative pressure room in our intensive care unit. Due to persistent hypoxia and in preparation for repair, the patient was started on veno-venous ECMO. With ECMO support, tracheobronchial injury repair was performed without intraoperative ventilation. In accordance with the surgery manual for COVID-19 patients in our hospital, all medical staff who treated this patient used personal protective equipment. Partial transection of the tracheal bifurcation membranous wall was detected and repaired using 4-0 monofilament absorbable sutures. The patient was discharged on the 29th postoperative day without postoperative complications.ConclusionsECMO support for traumatic TBI in this patient with COVID-19 reduced mortality risk while preventing aerosol exposure to the virus.

The effect on incisional hernia of absorbable barbed suture for midline fascial closure in minimally invasive surgery for colorectal and gastric cancers: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundIncisional hernia following abdominal surgery is a frequent complication of midline laparotomy. This complication is strongly associated with the technique and material used for suture. While a monofilament absorbable suture is recommended to prevent incisional hernia, it can lead to suture loosening or surgical-knot breakage. Although barbed sutures can be an alternative suture material in abdominal fascial closure, evidence for its safety and effectiveness is lacking. Therefore, we designed a prospective randomized trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of absorbable barbed sutures for midline fascia closure in minimally invasive surgery for colorectal and gastric cancers in comparison with conventional absorbable monofilament sutures.MethodsA total of 312 patients who underwent minimally invasive surgery for colorectal and gastric cancers will be randomly allocated to either the absorbable barbed or monofilament suture group for abdominal fascia closure in a 1:1 ratio. The primary outcome is incisional hernia rate within 3 years after surgery, as verified by physical examination and computed tomography. Postoperative complications, including surgical site infection, postoperative pain, and quality of life, will be compared between two groups as secondary outcomes. The investigator will examine the patients until discharge and at 6, 12, 18, 24, and 36 months postoperatively.DiscussionThis is the first randomized controlled trial to compare absorbable barbed sutures with monofilament sutures for midline fascia closure in minimally invasive surgery. If absorbable barbed sutures demonstrate superior results to those of monofilament sutures, this type of suture material may be recommended as an alternative option for abdominal fascia closure.Trial registrationKCT0007069. Registered on January 30, 2023

V07-07 WIRE-GUIDED EXTRAVESICAL ROBOT-ASSISTED BLADDER DIVERTICULECTOMY AND Y-V PLASTY FOR RECURRENT BLADDER NECK STRICTURE

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023V07-07 WIRE-GUIDED EXTRAVESICAL ROBOT-ASSISTED BLADDER DIVERTICULECTOMY AND Y-V PLASTY FOR RECURRENT BLADDER NECK STRICTURE Francesco Ditonno, Alessandro Veccia, Giovanni Novella, Lorenzo De Bon, Paola Irene Ornaghi, and Alessandro Antonelli Francesco DitonnoFrancesco Ditonno More articles by this author , Alessandro VecciaAlessandro Veccia More articles by this author , Giovanni NovellaGiovanni Novella More articles by this author , Lorenzo De BonLorenzo De Bon More articles by this author , Paola Irene OrnaghiPaola Irene Ornaghi More articles by this author , and Alessandro AntonelliAlessandro Antonelli More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003288.07AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: To present the surgical technique for robot-assisted wire-guided extravesical bladder diverticulectomy and simultaneous Y-V plasty for recurrent bladder neck stricture. METHODS: A 58-year-old man referred to our center for recurrent LUTS after TURP. Thereafter, the patient underwent TUIP and 2 endoscopic bladder neck incisions, unsuccesfully. A CT scan showed two bladder diverticula of 4 and 8 cm located on the right and left postero-lateral wall, respectively. The patient was scheduled for robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy and Y-V plasty for recurrent bladder neck stricture. As first step, a double J stent was placed bilaterally and a guidewire was inserted in the lumen of each diverticulum to facilitate their identification and handling. The robotic stage was performed with Da Vinci Xi platform, with the patient in supine position, with a 25 degrees Trendelemburg. Six ports were placed across the lower abdomen, transperitoneally: four 8 mm robotic trocars and 2 assistant trocars (12 and 5 mm). The peritoneum was incised to expose posterolateral bladder wall. Perivesical fat was dissected and protruding mucosa of the diverticula isolated. A blunt dissection was mostly used, detaching the mucosa from the bladder wall. Once completely isolated, bladder mucosa was entirely excised and the neck of the diverticulum closed with a triple-layer continuous 3-0 monofilament absorbable suture. Retzius space was then opened and prostatic defatting was performed. The bladder neck was incised obtaining a Y-shaped flap. Two stay 3-0 monofilament sutures were placed at the end of the two branches of the Y. The flap was advanced and the margins closed with a double-layer emicontinuous 3-0 barbed absorbable suture. RESULTS: Operative time was 318 min. Estimated blood loss was 200 mL. There were no perioperative or postoperative complications. A voiding cystourethrogram before catheter removal, after 12 days, showing almost complete resolution of diverticular protrusion. Ureteral stents were removed 30 days post-operatively. CONCLUSIONS: Robot-assisted extravesical diverticulectomy and simultaneous Y-V plasty of the bladder neck is a safe and feasible procedure. Endoscopic guide-wire insertion into the diverticulum allowed for easier traction and dissection of the tissues. Advantages of the procedure consist of avoidance of cystotomy, easy individuation and excision of diverticular mucosa and concomitant resolution of relapsing cervico-urethral obstruction. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e597 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Francesco Ditonno More articles by this author Alessandro Veccia More articles by this author Giovanni Novella More articles by this author Lorenzo De Bon More articles by this author Paola Irene Ornaghi More articles by this author Alessandro Antonelli More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Influence of conventional versus unidirectional barbed suture on leakage pressures in canine vesicourethral anastomosis: An ex-vivo study.

To compare leakage pressures of vesicourethral anastomosis (VUA) performed with conventional and unidirectional barbed sutures in canine cadaveric tissue. Experimental, ex-vivo, randomized study. A total of 24 male canine bladders with the urethra. Specimens after prostatectomy were randomly divided into a unidirectional barbed suture (UBS) or a conventional suture (C) group. For the UBS group, the VUA was performed with 4-0 unidirectional barbed sutures. For the C group, the VUA was performed with 4-0 monofilament absorbable suture. The VUA was completed with two simple continuous sutures. Surgical time, leakage pressure, site of leakage, and the number of suture bites were recorded. The median suturing time was 12.70 minutes (range: 7.50-16.10min) for the UBS group and 17.30 minutes (range: 14.00-21.30 min) for the C group (p < .0002). The median leakage pressure was 8.60 mmHg (range: 5.00-17.20 mmHg) for the UBS group and 11.70 mmHg (range: 6.00-18.50 mmHg) for the C group (p=.236). The median number of suture bites was 14 (range:11-27) for the UBS group and 19 (range:17-28) for the C group (p=.012). Unidirectional barbed suture does not statistically affect the acute leakage pressure of VUA in normal cadaveric specimen. It resulted in a shorter surgical time and fewer suture bite placements. A urinary catheter will still be required when a unidirectional barbed suture is used to complete a VUA in dogs to prevent extravasation of urine in the postoperative period.

A highly elastic absorbable monofilament suture fabricated from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate)

To address the growing demand for more elastic sutures free from unwanted knot loosening, we fabricated an absorbable monofilament suture from poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) and subjected it to physical property characterization and performance evaluation (in vitro and in vivo degradability tests and a porcine abdominal wall suture test). As this flexible, highly stretchable, and difficult-to-untie suture exhibited additional advantages of small knot size and medium to long-term bioabsorbability, it was concluded to be a safe alternative to existing monofilament sutures, with far-reaching potential applications.

Knot strength and antimicrobial evaluations of partially absorbable suture.

Partially absorbable suture is useful for orthopedic repair as it possesses the capacity to promote a balance between strength, degradation rate and minimal inflammation. Still, the availability of partially absorbable suture is scarce. So far, no study has examined the mechanical strength and anti-microbial properties of partially absorbable monofilament suture made of low-density polyethylene (LDPE)/polylactide (PLA)/chitosan (CHS); hence, the reason for this study with a view to improve knot strength, antimicrobial property and degradation rate. In this study, monofilament suture was extruded using different weight fractions of LDPE, PLA and CHS. In vitro degradation studies were carried out using phosphate buffer solution (PBS). Mechanical and morphological changes were also examined. A standard Fourier transform infrared spectral of 3433, 2909-2840, 1738, 1452, 1174, 1062, 706cm-1 were assigned to OH group, C-H stretch, C=O vibration of ester, CH3 bending, alkyl ester and CH2 stretch, respectively. Tensile strength of knotted neat LDPE (4.84MPa) exhibited 48.7% improvement in LDPE/PLA/CHS (60/39.5/0.5). This suggests that a good knot can be achieved to 40% weight fraction of PLA. The monofilament suture also demonstrated better antimicrobial property as the monofilament, LDPE/PLA/CHS (60/39.5/0.5) and LDPE/PLA/CHS (50/49.5/0.5) covered 12.7mm zone of inhibition which is greater than the standard 1mm. The suture's morphological phases show dark fibre-like rough surfaces with microstructural irregularities as PLA and CHS were added to the matrix, which is required for enhanced degradation. Thus, the partially absorbable suture produced in this study could serve as a suture for tendon repair.

V-010 LAPAROSCOPIC TAPP APPROACH OF A GRYNFELLT HERNIA

Abstract Aim To describe our laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal approach of a Grynfellt hernia. Material &amp; Methods A female patient 69 years of age with no previous medical history came to our consultation with a chronic right lumbar bulge that produced local pain and discomfort. Preoperative CT scan showed a primary lumbar hernia with a defect estimated at 11cm. Laparoscopic approach seemed feasible and was accepted. Results The patient was placed on a left decubitus with the OR bed at a 45° angle. 3 trocars were used, one slightly lateral of the umbilicus for the camera, and for triangulation a subcostal 5mm and an 11mm trocar in the left flank. We started opening the peritoneum and performing preperitoneal space dissection. The hernia sac was identified and its contents were reduced. We closed the defect using a monofilament absorbable barbed suture with a running stitch. Once the defect was closed, we placed a medium-weight polypropylene mesh in a 3D “taco” configuration covering the defect with sufficient overlap. Both the mesh and the peritoneum closure were done using cyanoacrylate glue. No complications occurred and discharge was the next day. Conclusions Primary lumbar hernias are rare. Symptomatic hernias should be treated as they can lead to pain, discomfort, and a decrease in quality of life. Laparoscopic TAPP is a safe and simple way to access and repair these hernias, allowing an adequate space of dissection that permits the placement of a mesh tension-free with sufficient overlap, with a quick recovery time and minimal morbidity.

Laparoscopic approach for a cesarean scar pregnancy

To describe a surgical technique of laparoscopic resection of a cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) with an immediate myometrial reconstruction. The advantage of such a technique is that it is a minimally-invasive procedure that can treat the ectopic pregnancy and the defected scar at the same time with good postoperative results. Video article with the description of a surgical minimally-invasive technique. Academic medical center. A 34-year-old patient, Gravida 6 Para 4 Abortus 1, with a history of 4 previous cesarean sections presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. The patient was hemodynamically stable. An endovaginal ultrasound revealed a viable pregnancy of 8 weeks implanted in the cesarean scar, with a residual myometrium of <1 mm. Because of increasing abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and a desire to preserve future fertility, an emergent laparoscopy was performed. Laparoscopy was performed using a CO2 AcuPulse laser device (Lumenis Inc. Salt Lake City, Utah). A continuous wave mode was used, with a power of 30 Watt and a round-shaped beam of 1.5 mm in diameter. The laser was connected to a 10-mm Hopkins endoscope 0° (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany). A complete adhesiolysis was performed, and the urinary bladder was detached from the anterior abdominal wall. The vesicouterine fold was opened to expose the isthmic part of the uterus where the ectopic pregnancy was implanted. The defected scar was resected en bloc with the pregnancy, using the laser. The limits of the resection depended on the residual myometrial thickness. We considered a myometrial thickness of >8 mm as healthy tissue. A metallic probe was introduced vaginally into the endocervix to differentiate the anterior part from the posterior part of the uterus. This probe facilitates the manipulation of the cervix and, thus, the laparoscopic intracorporeal suturing during the myometrial reconstruction. A 2-layered suturing was performed. The first layer of the suture consisted of 3 interrupted figure-of-8 sutures using a monofilament absorbable suture (Monocryl 0, ETHICON-Johnson and Johnson medical devices New Brunswick, New Jersey). A second superficial layer consisted of a continuous nonlocking suture using the same type of thread. Laparoscopic excision of the CSP and immediate repair of the scar defect without any postoperative complications. An emergent laparoscopy was performed, with excision of the CSP and immediate reconstruction of the residual myometrium. No complications occurred, the blood loss was estimated at 200 mL, and no blood transfusion was necessary. The patient was discharged 24 hours after the intervention. Six months after surgery, the remaining myometrial thickness was between 7 mm and 9.3 mm, and no residual cesarean scar defect (isthmocele) was visualized by ultrasound. Cesarean scar pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy. The incidence, however, is increasing as a consequence of the rising cesarean section rate. Different surgical and nonsurgical techniques have been described in the literature. Laparoscopic excision of a CSP is an effective and feasible technique with the advantage of an immediate myometrial reconstruction. The cesarean scar defect diminishes, and this potentially could improve the future fertility of the patient and decrease the probability of abnormal uterine bleeding and chronic pelvic pain.

Monofilament vs multifilament suture for uterine closure at the time of cesarean delivery: a randomized clinical trial

Different factors may influence the closure of the uterine wall, including suture material. Suture materials may indeed influence tissue healing and therefore the development of scar defects. To test whether uterine closure using synthetic absorbable monofilament sutures at the time of cesarean delivery would reduce the rate of cesarean scar defects compared with uterine closure using synthetic absorbable multifilament sutures. Parallel-group, nonblinded, randomized clinical trial of women with singleton pregnancies undergoing cesarean delivery at term in a single center in Italy. The inclusion criteria were singleton pregnancy, first or second cesarean delivery, scheduled and emergent or urgent cesarean deliveries, and gestational age between 37 0/7 and 42 0/7 weeks. Eligible participants were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to either the monofilament group (polyglytone 6211 [Caprosyn]; Covidien, Dublin, Ireland) or the multifilament suture group (coated polyglactin 910 suture with Triclosan [Vicryl Plus]; Ethicon, Inc, Raritan, NJ). The primary outcome was the incidence of cesarean scar defect at ultrasound at the 6-month follow-up visit. The secondary outcomes were residual myometrial thickness and symptoms. Overall, 300 women were included in the trial. Of the randomized women, 151 were randomized to the monofilament group and 149 to the multifilament group. However, 27 women were lost to follow-up: 15 in the monofilament group and 12 in the multifilament group. Of note, 6 months after delivery, the incidence rates of cesarean scar defect were 18.4% (25 of 136 patients) in the monofilament group and 23.4% (32 of 137 patients) in the multifilament group (relative risk, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.41-1.25; P=.31). The mean residual myometrial thicknesses were 7.6 mm in the monofilament group and 7.2 mm in the multifilament group (mean difference, +0.40 mm; 95% confidence interval, -0.23 to 1.03). There was no between-group substantial difference found in the incidence of symptoms, including pelvic pain, painful periods, and dyspareunia. In singleton pregnancies undergoing primary or second cesarean delivery, the use of synthetic absorbable monofilament sutures at the time of uterine wall closure was not associated with a reduction in the rate of cesarean scar defect 6 months after delivery compared with the use of synthetic absorbable multifilament sutures.

Development of an Antimicrobial-Coated Absorbable Monofilament Suture from a Medical-Grade Poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) Copolymer.

In this study, a medical-grade poly(l-lactide-co-ε-caprolactone) (PLC) copolymer with a monomer ratio of l-lactide (L) to ε-caprolactone (C) of 70:30 mol % for use as an absorbable surgical suture was synthesized via ring-opening polymerization (ROP) using a novel soluble liquid tin(II) n-butoxide (Sn(OnC4H9)2) as an initiator. In fiber fabrication, the process included copolymer melt extrusion with a minimal draw followed by sequential controlled hot-drawing and fixed-annealing steps to obtain oriented semicrystalline fibers with improved mechanical strength. For healing enhancement, the fiber was dip-coated with “levofloxacin” by adding the drug into a solution mixture of acetone, poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL), and calcium stearate (CaSt) in the ratio of acetone/PCL/CaSt = 100:1% w/v:0.1% w/v. The tensile strength of the coated fiber was found to be increased to ∼400 MPa, which is comparable with that of commercial polydioxanone (PDS II) of a similar size. Finally, the efficiency of the drug-coated fiber regarding its controlled drug release and antimicrobial activity was investigated, and the results showed that the coated fiber was able to release the drug continuously for as long as 30 days. For fiber antimicrobial activity, it was found that a concentration of 1 mg/mL was sufficient to inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, giving a clear inhibition zone range of 20–24 mm for 90 days. Cytotoxicity testing of the drug-coated fibers showed a %viability of more than 70%, indicating that they were nontoxic.