Absorbable Suture Research Articles

Letter to the editor: Prospective analysis of STRATAFIX™ symmetric PDS plus suture for fascial closure in spinal surgery: a pilot study.

Spine surgery is essential for restoring alignment, stability, and function in patients with cervical spine injuries, especially when instability, pain, deformity, or progressive nerve damage is present. Effective wound closure is vital in these procedures, aiming to promote rapid healing, reduce infection risks, enable early mobilization, and ensure satisfactory cosmetic results. However, there is limited evidence on the optimal wound closure technique for posterior spine surgery, highlighting the need for innovative approaches. A study by Glener et al. evaluated the effectiveness of STRATAFIX™ Symmetric barbed sutures compared to traditional braided absorbable sutures in spinal surgery. In a randomized trial involving 20 patients, the STRATAFIX™ group demonstrated a shorter mean closure time and significantly fewer sutures used, though without a statistically significant reduction in closure time. No significant differences were observed in postoperative complications between the groups during a six-month follow-up. While the findings suggest potential cost savings and efficiency improvements with STRATAFIX™, the study's small sample size and short follow-up period limit its generalizability. Furthermore, AI-based models, such as the Xception deep learning model, show promise in improving suture training accuracy for medical students, which could enhance surgical outcomes and reduce complications. Despite the promising results, further research with larger sample sizes, extended follow-up periods, and multi-center trials is necessary to validate the effectiveness of barbed sutures like STRATAFIX™ in neurosurgery. The integration of AI in surgical training and continued exploration of innovative techniques are essential to advancing the field and optimizing patient care in spinal surgery.

Tensile testing in feline ventral abdominal coeliotomy closure with different sizes of polydioxanone suture material: a biomechanical study.

The aim of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the load and type of failure of the sutured ventral abdominal fascia of cats with different sizes of suture material made of polydioxanone (PDX) (2-0, 3-0, 4-0, 5-0 USP). A total of 32 samples of the ventral abdominal wall from 16 cadaveric cats were harvested using an hourglass-shaped template. The samples were sectioned longitudinally along the linea alba and then sutured together in a continuous pattern using four different randomly assigned sizes of pdx suture material (2-0, 3-0, 4-0, 5-0 USP). A universal testing machine was used for linear distraction of the samples. The tensile strength and type of failure were recorded and analysed. Three types of failure were defined: suture material failure (S), suture line failure (T1) and failure of the abdominal wall further away from the linea alba (T2). The frequency of suture material failure decreased with increasing suture size. Suture size 5-0 failed due to a S failure in 6/8 samples, PDX 4-0 failed in 2/8 samples and PDX 3-0 failed in only 1/8 samples. However, PDX 2-0 failed due to only T1 or T2 failures, with both failures being almost equally represented. No statistically significant differences in the load to failure between PDX 2-0, 3-0 and 4-0 were noted (P >0.05). The risk of suture failure increased with decreasing suture size diameter. PDX 2-0 and 3-0 can be used without reservation for the closure of ventral midline coeliotomy in cats. Although there was no statistically significant difference between PDX 2-0, 3-0 and 4-0, PDX 4-0 showed a higher probability for suture breakage and should be used only after careful consideration of the patient while clinical evaluation is pending. Pdx 5-0 cannot be recommended as a safe suture size for this type of surgical closure.

At the Scrub Sink: Permanent Versus Absorbable Sutures for Sacrocolpopexy Vaginal Mesh Fixation.

Thirty years ago, open sacrocolpopexy was the main route for the procedure, and at that time, most surgeons used permanent sutures to attach the mesh to the vagina. With the changes to laparoscopic and robotic-assisted routes, some urogynecologists started using delayed absorbable sutures while others continued using permanent sutures. The current data suggest no increased failures with delayed absorbable sutures. Given that the risk of suture exposure is almost eliminated with delayed absorbable sutures, it is reasonable to use delayed absorbable sutures in attaching the mesh to the vagina over permanent sutures. Regardless of the suture selection, the 10% long-term mesh exposure rate after sacrocolpopexy should prompt us to continue discussing and working on solutions to lower the mesh exposure rate and improve prolapse surgery outcomes for our patients.

812. INTRAOPERATIVE USE OF IMPEDANCE PLANIMETRY FOR RECURRENT ACHALASIA AFTER HELLER-NISSEN

Abstract Background Re-operations after Heller myotomy for esophageal achalasia is a challenging operation due to the fibrotic tissue surrounding the esophago-gastric junction (EGJ). The risk of both undertreatment or, on the other hand, esophageal perforation is significant. The impedance planimetry could guide the operation and assess whether the patients needs further dissection of adhesions, an extension of the previous myotomy and anti-reflux treatment. Methods A 70-year-old woman treated with Heller-Nissen in 1983 for type II achalasia was referred to our tertiary care center with absolute dysphagia for three days. In the past 41 years she reported occasional and self-limited episodes of dysphagia, regurgitation and chest pain. Aside from that, her medical history was unremarkable. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with airway protection was performed, showing retained solid food. A water-soluble swallow study showed a tortuous megaesophagus and a misaligned esophageal gastric junction (EGJ), which did not allow endoscopic dilation. Esophageal wall thickening and focal lesions were ruled out by a CT scan. Results A laparoscopy with impedance planimetry technology support was scheduled. The first EGJ distensibility index (EGJ-DI) measurement was 2.1 mm2/mmHg. Esophagus was freed, encircled and released from the hiatus. An EGD confirmed the reposition of the cardia in the abdomen and the previous anterior esophageal myotomy. The Nissen fundoplication was not detectable. At this stage, an EGJ-DI of 4,2 mm2/mmHg was found. To obtain a regular esophageal outflow an anterior myotomy of the EGJ and proximal stomach was carried out and the edge was everted with absorbable barbed suture. A posterior cruroplasty was then performed. The final EGJ-DI was 8,8 mm2/mmHg. Conclusion The postoperative course was uneventful and she was discharged on post-operative day 4 eating a soft diet. In conclusion, the intraoperative use of the impedance planimetry technology has been crucial for a correct decision-making process during complex redo operations for esophageal achalasia as it has helped to tailor the surgical treatment. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/pednopcqnalooidynge3q/ISDE-Definitivo.mov?rlkey=8exx0oe6ompxoex8wqmlsgi0i&st=xgnfnjyt&dl=0

Composite suture material based on polylactide accelerates the healing of surgical wounds in in vivo experiment.

In laboratory conditions, composite sutures based on polylactide (PLA) containing chitin nanofibrils modified with polyethylene glycol (CN-PEG) and poviargol (silver nanoparticles stabilized with poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone)) were obtained, studied, and used as a prototype. Surgical sutures threads with the addition of CN-PEG have stable mechanical properties both in air and in a buffer simulating the environment of a living organism. The yield strength of oriented threads decreased by an average of 15%, whereas for non-oriented threads the decrease was 3-4 times. The strength values in simple units of unfilled PLA, PLA containing 5 wt % CN-PEG, and PLA with 1 wt % Poviargol were on average 50% higher than the national standard 31620-2012. The results of in vivo experiments on albino rats (cross-linking skin and muscle tissue in the linea alba area) showed that composite sutures are best for suturing muscle tissue, whereas unfilled PLA sutures are more suitable for suturing skin. When suturing muscle tissue, suturing with composite sutures increased the number of collagen fibers of different diameters.

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

Abdominal Mesh Colpopexy Without Promontory Fixation: 10-Year Follow-up Results of the Peritoneocolpopexy Technique

ObjectivesTo restore apical vaginal prolapse support when the access to the promontory is challenging, a modified method of colpopexy may be needed. We present our 10-year results on the peritoneocolpopexy (PCP) technique without promontory fixation relying on unidirectional barbed delayed absorbable sutures (V-Loc). MethodsFourteen women who underwent PCP for vaginal vault prolapse between 2011 and 2014 participated in an IRB-approved prospective study (11 non-infected; 3 with infected mesh needing excision). Ten-year follow-up data including validated questionnaires (UDI-6, IIQ-7, QoL), pelvic organ prolapse quantifications (POP-Q), complications, re-operations, and secondary prolapses were collected. Paired statistical analyses compared various timepoints and mixed model analysis assessed questionnaire and POP-Q trends over time. ResultsMedian follow-up was 9.7 years (IQR: 6.0 – 0.7) to last POP-Q and 10.4 years (IQR: 9.6 – 11.5) to last contact. No patients were lost to follow-up. Mean baseline C point for all patients was -4.3 and -2.9; 1-year C point was -9.1 and -9.2 and -8.6 and -8.5, respectively at last visit. POP-Q findings improved between pre-PCP and 1-year post surgery and did not significantly change until the last visit. Trends in UDI-6, IIQ-7, QoL and POP-Q findings showed no significant change in any category per year (95% CI, p = 0.2 – 0.9). Secondary anterior compartment prolapse was noted in 3 patients with 1 requiring a repair. ConclusionsPeritoneocolpopexy provides durable vaginal apical support when access to the promontory is compromised. PCP can also be used to prevent secondary prolapse after an infected mesh removal.

Advancements in Sericulture: Innovations and Biomedical Applications of Silk and Its Derivatives

Silk, particularly from the Bombyx mori species, has been found to possess unique properties that make it exceptionally suitable for biomedical applications. Sericulture, traditionally known for silk production, has found significant applications in the biomedical field. This article explores the use of silk and its derivatives in various biomedical applications, including tissue engineering, drug delivery systems, wound healing, and medical sutures. The biocompatibility, biodegradability and mechanical properties of silk make it an ideal material for numerous medical applications. This article discusses the advancements in utilizing sericulture products in biomedical sciences, highlighting the potential and the challenges of these applications.

Evaluation of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in an Experimental Intestinal Ischemia-Reperfusion Model in Rats: The Role of Ozone Therapy and Trimetazidine.

The objective of the study was to assess the impact of ozone (O3) and trimetazidine on the intestines following ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury through the investigation of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Forty Sprague Dawley rats were separated into five groups. The groups were named as follows: control, O3, I/R, I/R + trimetazidine (TMZ), and I/R + O3. The control group had laparotomy and exploration of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) only. Furthermore, alongside laparotomy and SMA exploration, an intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of a 0.7 mg/kg ozone-oxygen (O3-O2) combination was given to the O3 group. In the experimental groups, the SMA was blocked with the silk suture ligation technique for a duration of 1 h and then restored to normal blood flow for another hour. In the I/R + O3 group, ozone was delivered i.p. at a dosage of 0.7 mg/kg, 30 min after ischemia. In the I/R + TMZ group, a dose of 20 mg/kg/day of trimetazidine was administered orally via gavage for a duration of 7 days, beginning 1 week prior to the induction of ischemia. Intestinal tissues were taken to assess indicators of intestinal mucosal injury and oxidative stress. The level of the lipid peroxidation marker malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly reduced in the experimental groups as compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). The experimental groups had considerably greater levels of glutathione (GSH), which reflects antioxidant capacity, compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, the concentration of GSH was observed to be increased in the I/R + O3 group in comparison to the I/R + TMZ group (p < 0.05). The histopathological damage score showed a substantial decrease in the experimental groups as compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). The I/R + O3 group had the lowest injury score. The experimental groups exhibited significantly reduced positivity of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and glucose-regulated protein (GRP)-78 compared to the I/R group (p < 0.05). The findings provide evidence for the potential advantages of utilizing ozone therapy in the treatment of intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury. Additionally, they propose that ozone should be assessed in more extensive clinical trials in the future as a therapeutic agent that can disrupt endoplasmic reticulum stress.

Prospective analysis of STRATAFIX™ symmetric PDS plus suture for fascial closure in spinal surgery: a pilot study

Wound closure is an integral part of every spinal procedure. Effective and secure wound closure is paramount in the prevention of infection, wound dehiscence and the preservation of cosmesis. Barbed suture technologies such as STRATAFIX™ Symmetric have been studied and are used in a variety of specialties, including obstetrics and orthopedic surgery, but is underutilized in neurosurgery. This study aims to assess the time and rate of closure using STRATAFIX™ Symmetric technology for fascial closure and compare this method to the more traditionally used method of fascial closure using braided absorbable sutures below the epidermis. 20 patients were recruited for the study. 10 patients underwent fascial approximation with braided absorbable sutures and definitive fascial closure with STRATAFIX™ Symmetric. In the control group, fascial closure was completed entirely with interrupted braided absorbable stitches. Patients assigned to STRATAFIX™ Symmetric group had shorter mean time for fascial closure, faster rate of average fascial closure, and lower number of total sutures used. The use of barbed suture technology such as STRATAFIX™ Symmetric may reduce the time to closure in thoracolumbar spine surgery without increasing the risk of adverse events. This pilot study forms the framework for a larger randomized, controlled trial appropriately powered for such an analysis.

The effect of absorbable collagen suture for oral implant repair on wound healing and inflammation factors of gingival crevicular fluid

Background: To investigate the clinical value of absorbable collagen suture in the treatment of oral implant restoration. Methods: A prospective, randomized, single-blind trial was conducted in patients undergoing dental implant restoration in our hospital. The patients were divided into an absorbable group (incision closure with absorbable collagen suture) and a conventional group (incision closure with conventional suture). The incision healing time, postoperative pain degree, incision healing grade, patient satisfaction, and the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in gingival crevicular fluid were compared between the two groups. Results: The absorbable group had faster incision healing times and lower postoperative pain scores on days 1 and 2, all with significant differences (P&lt;0.05). Wound healing in the absorbable group was notably better, with a Grade A healing rate of 96.88% and a Grade B healing rate of 3.13%. In contrast, the conventional group had a Grade A healing rate of 81.25%, a Grade B healing rate of 17.19%, and a Grade C healing rate of 1.56%. These differences favored the absorbable group significantly (P&lt;0.05).Before surgery, there were no statistically significant differences in the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 in gingival crevicular fluid between the absorbable and conventional groups (P&gt;0.05). However, 3 days after surgery, the absorbable group showed significantly lower levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 compared to the conventional group (P&lt;0.05).Patient satisfaction rates for stability, aesthetics, chewing function, and pronunciation were similar between the two groups (P&gt;0.05). However, patients in the absorbable group reported significantly higher comfort levels compared to those in the conventional group (P&lt;0.05). Moreover, the complication rate in the absorbable group was significantly lower at 6.25% compared to 18.75% in the conventional group (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Absorbable collagen suture for oral implant prosthesis after suture, beneficial to wound healing and reduce postoperative pain and inflammation.

Investigation of Absorbable and Non-Absorbable Multifilament Suture Materials in Terms of Strength Changes Using Chlorhexidine Mouthwash and Thermal Cycling: An In Vitro Study.

Sutures are natural or synthetic biomaterials utilized to hold tissues together. Following oral surgery, the surgical site and sutures are physically affected by many different factors. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of artificial saliva (AS) and chlorhexidine mouthwash on the tensile strength of absorbable multifilament PGLA (polyglycolide-co-l-lactide) and non-absorbable multifilament silk sutures. PGLA and silk sutures, which are commonly used in oral surgery, were used to evaluate the change in strength of the sutures. A total of 352 suture samples were divided into eight equal groups (n = 44) and used for the experiments. Tensile strength was tested on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. For the silk sutures, there was a significant decrease in tensile strength in all groups at time T3 compared to T0, T1, and T2, and at times T1 and T2 compared to T0. For PGLA sutures, there was a significant decrease in all groups at time T3 compared to T0, T1, and T2. This study shows that chlorhexidine mouthwash significantly reduces suture resistance for 14 days after surgery.

A Randomized Controlled Comparison of Guardian-Perceived Cosmetic Outcome of Simple Lacerations Repaired With Either Dermabond, Steri-Strips, or Absorbable Sutures.

The aim of this study was to compare the guardian-perceived 3-month cosmetic outcome for pediatric lacerations repaired with absorbable sutures, Dermabond, or Steri-Strips. Secondarily, pain and satisfaction with the procedure from both guardian and provider perspectives were compared. In this randomized controlled trial, we enrolled a convenience sample of children aged 0 to <18 years who presented with simple linear lacerations (≤5 cm in length, ≤0.5 cm in width, and <12 hours old) to a pediatric emergency department. Children were randomized to receive laceration repair with absorbable sutures, Dermabond, or Steri-Strips. Topical L.E.T. solution (lidocaine, epinephrine, tetracaine) was applied to wounds which were then closed by the primary team. Guardians and providers completed questionnaires regarding perceived pain and satisfaction with the procedure. Guardians were contacted 3 months after the repair and asked to email a picture of the scar with their perception of cosmesis rated on a visual analog scale from 0 to 100. Fifty-five patients were enrolled, of whom 30 completed 3-month follow-up (12 suture, 7 Dermabond, 11 Steri-strips). There was no statistical evidence of an association between scar appearance and closure method based on medians and interquartile ranges for cosmetic ratings of scar: suture median 70.5 (IQR 59.8-76.8), Dermabond median 85 (IQR 73-90), Steri-strips median 67 (IQR 55-78) (P = 0.254). Guardian satisfaction with length of stay, guardian and physician satisfaction with the procedure, and guardian and physician-perceived pain also showed no differences. No differences were observed in guardian-perceived cosmesis of simple lacerations repaired with sutures, Dermabond, or Steri-Strips when evaluated 3 months after intervention. In addition, there were no differences in guardian or physician-perceived pain or satisfaction with the closure methods. The results of this study suggest that all 3 closure methods appear to be clinically equivalent, which is largely consistent with other evidence. Further study should be expanded to a larger demographic.

Trans-Abdominal Pre-Peritoneal (TAPP) Approach for Anatomical Repair of Direct Inguinal Hernia in Children, Could it Be the New Standardized Approach?

BackgroundThe incidence of direct inguinal hernia in the pediatric population is relatively low and is usually discovered intraoperatively, rendering it unfamiliar to most pediatric surgeons. The traditional approach involves directly addressing the peritoneal defect, which includes dissecting the sac and repairing the peritoneum, reinforced with the umbilical ligament. In this paper, we present our experience with a novel approach to anatomical repair utilizing a non-mesh transabdominal preperitoneal (TAPP) approach. MethodsThis a retrospective case series of direct inguinal hernia that were operated laparoscopically using the novel approach of repair from January 2018 to January 2024. Data were analyzed for demographics, presentation, type of defect, operative time, complications, and recurrence. The new approach utilizes the pre-peritoneal approach to delineate the exact facial defect then, primary anatomical repair is established using 2/0 non-absorbable braided sutures. Finally, closure of the peritoneum was performed using running 4/0 absorbable sutures.This is a retrospective case series of direct inguinal hernias that were operated on laparoscopically using the novel repair approach from January 2018 to January 2024. Data were analyzed for demographics, presentation, type of defect, operative time, complications, and recurrence. The new approach employs the pre-peritoneal approach to accurately delineate the fascial defect, followed by primary anatomical repair using 2/0 non-absorbable braided sutures. Finally, the peritoneum is closed using running 4/0 absorbable sutures. ResultsData from nine cases were included. Six cases were on right side, and three cases were on left side. Patients were predominantly boys (8 boys and 1 girl). The mean age at operation was 25.1 months (range:11 month to 5 years). Four patients had previous indirect inguinal hernia repair on the same side. The mean operative time was 34 ± 9 min. No intraoperative complications occurred. The median follow up period was 24 months with no recurrence was detected in any of the cases. ConclusionThe non-mesh TAPP approach offers excellent exposure of the fascial structures, facilitating accurate identification and repair of the defect. Despite being technically demanding, it allows for the establishment of a robust anatomical repair. No recurrences occurred in the study group; however, a longer follow up and a larger sample are needed to provide more reliable evaluation. Level of EvidenceIII.

Postoperative monitoring of ovariohysterectomy carried out with two types of surgical sutures in shelter cats and differences in selected blood parameters between shelter and pet cats

BackgroundReduction of inflammation and early detection of complications after surgical procedures are important objectives for proper veterinary practice. This study aimed to evaluate the differences between shelter and pet female cats in selected acute-phase parameters scheduled to ovariohysterectomy. Postoperative monitoring after ovariohysterectomy with the same laboratory parameters was performed in shelter cats, in which two different types of surgical sutures were used for the entire procedure. The experimental group comprised 40 female cats from animal shelters (‘shelter cats,’ n = 40). These cats were divided into two subgroups: group A (n = 20) operated on with absorbable sutures and group NA (n = 20) operated on with non-absorbable sutures. In addition, the same parameters were evaluated in pet female cats (n = 19). Blood was collected from shelter cats immediately before surgery (term 0), at 24 and 72 h (terms 1 and 3, respectively), and at 7 and 14 days (terms 7 and 14, respectively) after ovariohysterectomy. Blood samples from the pet cat group were collected only once.ResultThe mean haptoglobin concentration before ovariohysterectomy in pet cats was significantly lower than that in shelter cats. Fibrinogen concentration was significantly lower in pet cats than in cats from group A. Serum albumin, beta-1, beta-2, and gamma-globulin concentrations were significantly higher in the shelter cats than in the pet cats. Subcutaneous tissue thickening at the site of the postoperative wound was observed in five patients cats (25%) in group A, and two (10%) cats in the NA group.ConclusionThese results indicate that ovariohysterectomy leads to local and general inflammatory responses. The majority of cats from animal shelters suffered from subclinical inflammation.

The precision of technical aspects in the minimally invasive Broström–Gould procedure: a cadaveric anatomical study

BackgroundA comprehensive understanding of the anatomy of the anterolateral ankle joint and its interrelationships is essential for advancing the development of minimally invasive Broström–Gould procedure, thereby enhancing surgical efficacy and minimizing postoperative complications.MethodsTen fresh human ankle specimens were dissected to observe the shape and trajectory of the lateral bundle of the inferior extensor retinaculum (IER) and its relationship with the deep fascia. To observe the relationship between the ankle capsule and the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL). The center of the insertion point of ATFL at the lateral malleolus was used as the reference point. The vertical distance from the reference point to the fibula tip, the horizontal distance from the reference point to the lateral branch of the superficial peroneal nerve, the shortest distance from the reference point to IER, the narrowest width of the IER, the angle between the line connecting the shortest distance from the reference point to the IER and the longitudinal axis of the fibula were measured. The tension and elasticity of ATFL was understood. To describe the minimally invasive Broström–Gould procedure according to the anatomical characteristics of the anterolateral ankle joint.ResultsAmong the 10 cases, 8 cases (80%) had double bundles of ATFL, 2 cases (20%) had single bundle of ATFL, and no outer superior oblique bundle was observed in IER. The vertical distance from the reference point to the fibula tip was 1.2 ± 0.3 (range 1.1–1.3) mm. The shortest distance from the reference point to the level of the superficial peroneal branch was 28.2 ± 4.3 (range 24.5–32.4) mm. The shortest distance from the reference point to IER was 12.5 ± 0.6 (range 12.1–12.9) mm, and the width of IER at this point was 7.2 ± 0.3 (range 7.0–7.6) mm. The angle between the line connecting the shortest distance from the reference point to the IER and the longitudinal axis of the fibula was about 60° ± 2.8° (range 58.1°–62.1°) mm. The space between the anterolateral deep fascia of the ankle joint and the ankle capsule is very small, and only a few fat granules are separated between them. The ATFL is largely fused to the ankle capsule. The ATFL exhibited high tension and poor elasticity after traction with the probe hook.ConclusionsThe results showed that in the minimally invasive Broström–Gould technique for lateral ankle stabilization, the Broström procedure actually sutured the insertion of the ATFL together with the ankle capsule to the anterior edge of the lateral malleolus. In the Gould procedure, the deep fascia was mostly reinforced with the ankle capsule. The minimum suture span was obtained when the Gould suture needle direction was at an Angle of 60° to the longitudinal axis of the fibula.

Study on needle stick injuries during surgery and blunt needle use for reducing occupational exposure and hygiene benefits.

The conventional round suture needle poses a significant risk of needle stick injuries among surgical physicians, identified as a global occupational hazard by the World Health Organization, increasing hospital costs and exposure to bloodborne pathogens. While novel blunt suture needles have shown promise in reducing these risks, their adoption is limited domestically, prompting a study to compare their efficacy against traditional sharp needles in reducing needle stick injuries among surgical physicians. To investigate suture needle stick injuries among surgical doctors during operations and assess the application effectiveness of a novel blunt suture needle. A total of 106 surgical department physicians from March 2021 to February 2023 participated in the study. After completing a questionnaire survey on suture needle injuries during surgery, the participants were divided into two groups. Over a 6-month intervention period, the control group used regular round needles while the study group utilized novel blunt suture needles. Subsequently, suture needle injury incidence rates and economic hygiene benefits were compared between the two groups. The suture needle injury questionnaire survey showed that over the past 6 months, among 106 surgical department physicians, 20 needle stick injuries occurred, yielding an incidence rate of 18.87%. The highest incidence (65.00%) was during suturing incisions longer than 10 cm, primarily when visibility was poor (70.00%). Surgeons linked most injuries (60.00%) to prolonged surgical duration causing fatigue. Although 85.00% detected injuries within 1 minute, only 40.00% were reported, often due to perceived reporting complexity. Following intervention, the study group had significantly fewer injuries per surgery and lower occupational exposure costs compared to the control group (p< 0.05). Surgical department physicians commonly sustain suture needle injuries while suturing incisions of 5-10 cm length under poor visibility, exacerbated by prolonged surgical duration. Despite detecting most injuries within 1 minute, only 40% are reported. The implementation of novel blunt suture needles significantly decreases injury rates, resulting in reduced occupational exposure costs and favorable safety and economic hygiene outcomes.

Process Optimization for Coating of Acanthus Ilicifolius Extract on Silk Sutures

This study investigates the optimization of process parameters for coating silk sutures with Acanthus ilicifolius leaf extract. The increasing awareness of surgical site infections is a critical concern associated with the use of sutures in medical procedure undertaking. Our study aimed to assess the impact of three crucial coating factors, namely extract content, temperature, and duration, on the mechanical and antibacterial characteristics of silk sutures braided together. Through Box–Behnken design, in conjunction with the response surface approach, we conducted a thorough analysis to refine the model. The result showed that extract concentration directly influences both antimicrobial activity and elongation, while temperature and time primarily affect tensile strength and bending stiffness. To achieve the maximum tensile strength, minimum breaking elongation, minimum bending stiffness, and lower friction, all while maintaining the important antimicrobial efficacy of the sutures, this study emphasizes the use of response surface methodology in optimizing coating parameters for A. ilicifolius leaf extract on silk sutures. The response models are developed on the complex relationships between these parameters and the properties of the sutures.

Evaluation of Tensile Strength of Surgically Absorbable Suture Materials Used in Oral Surgery after Immersion in Different Beverages: An In Vitro Study.

Suture materials are natural or synthetic biomaterials used to close tissues together. After surgical procedures in the mouth, the surgical site and the sutures are physically affected by many different factors. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of frequently consumed beverages on the tensile strength of monofilament PGLA (polyglycolide-co-l-lactide) and multi-filament PGCL (polyglycolide-co-caprolactone) absorbable sutures. In particular, PGLA and PGCL absorbable sutures, which are frequently used in oral surgery, were used to evaluate the change in the strength of suture materials. The suture materials were soaked in tea, coffee, and cola drinks five times a day for 5 min each and the rest of the time in artificial saliva. All suture materials were aged via thermal cycling. Tensile strengths were tested at 0, 3, 7, and 14 days. Mixed ANOVA (four replicates: within-group comparison and two factors: between-group comparison) was performed to evaluate the effects of groups and time on the tension levels of the Tekmon and Vicryl suture materials. Analysis of Variance was used for the within- and between-group comparisons, with the Bonferroni corrected t-test for multiple comparisons. For the PGCL suture material, there were significant decreases in tension levels in artificial saliva, tea, coffee, and cola at time T3 compared to T0, T1, and T2, and at T1 and T2 compared to T0. For the PGLA suture material, there were significant decreases in tension levels in artificial saliva, tea, coffee, and cola at time T3 compared to T0, T1, and T2. There was also a significant decrease in tension level at time T2 in cola compared to T0. The present study demonstrates that beverages significantly decrease the strength of suture materials for 14 days after surgery. In particular, cola decreased the resistance of the PGCL suture material more significantly in the first week when compared to other beverages.

The clinical consequences of burst abdomen after emergency midline laparotomy: a prospective, observational cohort study

PurposeThe emergency midline laparotomy is a commonly performed procedure with a burst abdomen being a critical surgical complication requiring further emergency surgery. This study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of patients with burst abdomen after emergency midline laparotomy.MethodsA single-center, prospective, observational cohort study of patients undergoing emergency midline laparotomy during a two-year period was done. Abdominal wall closure followed a standardized technique using monofilament, slowly absorbable suture in a continuous suturing technique with a suture-to-wound ratio of at least 4:1. Treatment of burst abdomen was surgical. Data, including intra-hospital postoperative complications, were collected and registered chronologically based on journal entries. The primary outcome was to describe postoperative complications, length of stay, and the overall morbidity based on the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI), stratified between patients who did and did not suffer from a burst abdomen during admission.ResultsA total of 543 patients were included in the final cohort, including 24 patients with burst abdomen during admission. The incidence of burst abdomen after emergency midline laparotomy was 4.4%. Patients with a burst abdomen had a higher total amount of complications per patient (median of 3, IQR 1.3–5.8 vs. median of 1, IQR 0.0–3.0; p = 0.001) and a significantly higher CCI (median of 53.0, IQR 40.3–94.8 vs. median of 21.0, IQR 0.0–42.0; p = < 0.001).ConclusionPatients with burst abdomen had an increased risk of postoperative complications during admission as well as a longer and more complicated admission with multiple non-surgical complications.