An in vitro comparison of two suture intervals using braided absorbable loop suture in the equine linea alba.
OBJECTIVE
To compare bursting strength and failure modes of ventral median abdominal incisions closed with loop suture in a simple continuous pattern using two different suture-bite intervals.


METHODS
In vitro experiment.


METHODS
Equine cadavers (n=14; weighing >318 kg; postmortem interval <2 hours).


METHODS
A template was used to make a 25 cm incision with suture interval and bite size of either 1.0 cm x 1.5 cm or 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm. A 200 L polyurethane bladder was inserted within the abdomen and insufflated to create abdominal wall tension. Celiotomies were closed with a #2 braided lactomer 9-1 continuous pattern with a loop suture. Deviation from the linea, closure time (minutes), total suture length (cm), suture length to wound ratio (SL:WL), bursting pressure (mm Hg), and failure modes (fascial or suture) were compared between groups using a Mann-Whitney U test. Significance was set at P<.05.


RESULTS
No significant differences were identified between closing time, total suture length used, SL:WL, bursting pressure, or failure mode. Fascial failure was the main failure mode for both techniques; suture failure occurred rarely and knot failure did not occur.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on the overall bursting pressure and failure mode, #2 braided lactomer loop suture placed in a continuous pattern should provide sufficient security for closure of the equine linea alba during recovery and the immediate postoperative period.


CONCLUSIONS
Although there were no significant differences in the 2 patterns evaluated, the 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm pattern may have potential advantages for closure time, less total suture remaining in the wound, and strength.
Hassan
Karen A
KA
Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
Galuppo
Larry D
LD
van Hoogmoed
Linda M
LM
D000009:Abdominal Muscles / Q000601:surgery*; D020341:Absorbable Implants / Q000662:veterinary; D000818:Animals; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005260:Female; D006736:Horses / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000662:veterinary; D013536:Suture Techniques / Q000662:veterinary*; D013537:Sutures / Q000662:veterinary