Evaluation of 10-0 polyglycolic acid and polyglactin suture in rabbit limbal wounds

Sutures of 10-0 polyglycolic acid (Dexon) or polyglactin (Vicryl) were used to close limbal incision in rabbits. When seven Dexon or Vicryl sutures were used alone wound disruption occurred in eight of twelve eyes. Sutures disappeared at 4-5 weeks. When three 10-0 nylon sutures were alternated with four 10-0 absorbable sutures, wound integrity was greatly improved. The handling properties of these sutures were excellent and inflammatory reactions were minimal. The 10-0 Dexon and Vicryl did not appear to differ in their properties, but they were insufficient for lasting would closure when used alone. It is suggested that these sutures not be used as the sole closure for limbal wounds.