An in vitro comparison of two suture intervals using braided absorbable loop suture in the equine linea alba

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.

In vitro experiment.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.