The short-term effects of Dexon and nylon sutures in experimental microvascular surgery--a quantitative comparison

Acute inflammatory responses to 10--0 Dexon and nylon were compared 2 weeks after experimental microvascular surgery in Sprague-Dawley rats. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences, but the strength, long-term results, and minimal surrounding tissue reaction make Dexon a viable alternative to nylon. The main disadvantage of Dexon is its opaque blue-green color, which makes it nearly invisible in the operating field.