Objective: To compare the performance of an absorbable barbed suture device to absorbable monofilament suture after single layer, appositional gastrotomy and enterotomy closure.
Study design: Experimental comparative study.
Animals: Purpose-bred adult mongrel hounds (n = 14).
Methods: Bursting strengths up to 250 mmHg of incisional closure with either monofilament or barbed suture in a simple continuous, appositional pattern at sites in the stomach (2), jejunum (4), and colon (4) were compared at postoperative Days 3, 7, and 14. Time for incisional closure was compared between materials.
Results: Bursting strength was not significantly different between gastrotomies/enterotomies closed with the monofilament suture or the barbed device. Closure time was significantly reduced with the barbed device in jejunal enterotomy closure.
Conclusion: The barbed device compared favorably with monofilament suture for gastrotomy and enterotomy (small intestine, colon) closure. Results demonstrate comparable burst strengths between monofilament suture and the barbed device. Closure time was significantly reduced in jejunum closure using the barbed device.
© Copyright 2013 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.