[Resorbable staple sutures for partial stomach and duodenal stump closure. Animal experiment studies]

In two groups of pigs, 10 in each, partial gastrectomies with gastroduodenostomy (Billroth I) respectively gastrojejunostomy (Roux-en-Y) were performed. Absorbable lactomer (Polysorb, Auto-Suture) staple lines--a copolymer of glycolic acid/lactic acid-, used for the closure of the lesser curvature of the stomach and the duodenal stump, were safe. No suture dehiscence was observed. Macroscopic examination showed no major inflammatory adhesions around the staples. Microscopically inflammatory reactions around the staples in the gastrointestinal wall were found. Our results yielded no contraindication for clinical tests of absorbable sutures in gastrointestinal surgery.