In vitro biomechanical evaluation and comparison of FiberWire, FiberTape, OrthoFiber, and nylon leader line for potential use during extraarticular stabilization of canine cruciate deficient stifles.
OBJECTIVE
To compare biomechanical properties of 3 new generation polyethylene sutures (FiberTape [FT], FiberWire [FW], and OrthoFiber [OF]) with nylon leader line (NL) for use during extraarticular fixation of cranial cruciate deficient stifles.


METHODS
In vitro biomechanical testing of suture loops under monotonic tensile and cyclical loading until failure.


METHODS
Constructs of FT, FW, OF, and NL.


METHODS
Twenty loops of each of 12 combinations of fixation and suture had monotonic tensile and cyclical loading. Two knotting techniques (square knot [SQ], slip knot [SL]) and a crimp clamp (CR) system were evaluated. Elongation, stiffness, and strength of constructs was tested. The main effects of group, loop material, and their interaction were evaluated.


RESULTS
Knotted FT, FW, and OF had less elongation than knotted NL under monotonic tensile and cyclical loading. Under monotonic tensile loading, knotted FT and OF were stiffer than knotted NL. CR FT, CR FW, and CR OF were stiffer than CR NL and CR FT, CR FW, and CR OF were stiffer than knotted FT, FW, and OF. FW and OF knotted loops were weaker than knotted NL. CR FT was stronger than CR NL. CR FT and CR OF were weaker than knotted FT and OF.


CONCLUSIONS
Polyethylene sutures are stronger, stiffer and elongate less than nylon leader. Crimping suture alters the biomechanical properties of the loop.


CONCLUSIONS
FW, FT, and OF may perform better in reconstructive procedures, where increased strength and stiffness are considered to be beneficial.
Burgess
Richard
R
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. rburgess@purdue.edu
Elder
Steve
S
McLaughlin
Ron
R
Constable
Peter
P
D000818:Animals; D016118:Anterior Cruciate Ligament / Q000601:surgery*; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001864:Bone Wires / Q000592:standards / Q000662:veterinary*; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D004868:Equipment Failure / Q000662:veterinary; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D009757:Nylons; D013264:Stifle / Q000601:surgery*; D053832:Surgical Tape / Q000662:veterinary*; D013718:Tensile Strength
D009757:Nylons