A histologic and mechanical evaluation of carbon-coated polyester suture

Ultra low temperature isotropic (ULTI) carbon-coated polyester suture material was evaluated histologically and mechanically in dogs. These results were compared to those obtained for uncoated polyester and polybutylate coated polyester. The suture materials were used in the repair of the surgically incised medial collateral ligament and subcutaneous tissues to evaluate the potential of the carbon-coated system for ligamentous repairs. Following surgery, the dogs were sacrificed at periods of 1-48 weeks postoperatively for evaluation of tissue biocompatibility and mechanical strength of the materials. The polybutylate-coated polyester suture broke at lower force levels than did comparable sizes of uncoated or carbon-coated polyester. All three types showed a high retention (greater than 98%) of mechanical strength at 48 weeks, often exhibiting an increase in tensile strength due to tissue ingrowth. The histologic response to carbon-coated polyester was equal to or better than the response to either the uncoated polyester or polybutylate-coated polyester. A greater degree of tissue growth into the carbon-coated material was evident at most time periods following an initial acute inflammatory response which was also present in the other materials.