Comparison of strength properties of poly-L/D-lactide (PLDLA) 96/4 and polyglyconate (Maxon (R)) sutures: In vitro, in the subcutis, and in the Achilles tendon of rabbits

Achilles tendon rupture is a common injury. Absorbable sutures are not comm only used because of their limited strength properties, Recently, sutures w ith prolonged strength retention properties have been developed. The aim of the study is to test the mechanical properties of recently developed poly- L/D-lactide (PLDLA) sutures in comparison with polyglyconate (Maxon(R)) sut ures. PLDLA (0.2 mm thick) and Maxon(R) (4.0) sutures were studied in vitro by immersion in a buffered saline solution (pH 7.4). Tensile strength test s were done on sutures retrieved after 1-26 weeks. In vivo, they were impla nted in the subcutis of 32 rabbits, Tensile strength tests were done on sut ures retrieved after 1-6 weeks. The sutures were also used to repair the Ac hilles tendon in rabbits. Maximum force before breaking and percentage elon gation of tendons were determined. Although PLDLA had a lower initial tensi le strength than Maxon(R), PLDLA showed more prolonged tensile strength ret ention than Maxon(R). Tendons repaired with PLDLA, however, had a lower str ength than Maxon(R) repaired tendons at six weeks (insignificant difference ), PLDLA has more prolonged tensile strength properties compared with Maxon (R). Thus, PLDLA offers an alternative to Maxon(R) in repair of the Achille s tendon. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.