The effect of an enzymatic preparation for wound cleaning (Varidase®) on the mechanical properties of absorbable sutures (Dexon®) was studied in vitro and in vivo in a rat model. In vitro the sutures demonstrated a significant decrease in strenght (breaking strength and energy absorption) and extensibility after 12 days of incubation in saline. Incubation in Varidase, however, further decreased the mechanical properties significantly. The stiffness of the sutures was independent of treatment and time. In vivo changes of mechanical properties of the sutures resemble those of the in vitro study, except for a decrease in stiffness of the sutures. The sutures in a primary closed wound had the same strength (energy absorption) as the sutures of an open wound treated by saline, while the sutures of an open wound treated by Varidase tended to have a decreased strength (p = 0.08). This study supports the hypothesis that an enzymatic process may be involved in the degradation of Dexon. The continuous use of Varidase in Dexon-sutured wounds for a period longer than a few days is, therefore, questioned.

Keywords:
Proteolytic enzymes, Absorbable suture, Biodegradation, Mechanical properties
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© 1986 S. Karger AG, Basel
1986
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