Thrombogenicity of different suture materials as revealed by scanning electron microscopy

The thrombogenicity of five suture materials--polypropylene (Prolene), polyester (Mersilene), polyglactin 910 (Vicryl), nylon (Tthilon), and silk--was examined in vivo by scanning electron microscopy. The most blood-compatible material appeared to be Prolene. A rather satisfactory antithrombogenciity was shown by Mersilene, in comparison with which Ethilon and Vicryl provided less thromboresistance. The possible connection between the chemical changes which occur during the hydrolysis of Vicryl and its blood compatibility is discussed. Of the tested materials, silk proved to be the most thrombogenic. This study shows that the thrombogenicity of a suture material could be easily and conveniently tested in an experimental model by scanning electron microscopy, thus enabling the first choice of a suitable suture for the cardiovascular surgery, before one continues with other more sophisticated methods for the evaluation of thromboresistance.