An in vitro comparison of two suture intervals using braided absorbable loop suture in the equine linea alba.
Authors: Hassan Karen A, Galuppo Larry D, van Hoogmoed Linda M
Journal: Veterinary surgery : VS
Summary
# Editorial Summary Selecting optimal suture placement parameters for equine ventral midline closures remains pragmatically important, despite limited comparative evidence. Hassan and colleagues used cadaveric equine abdominal walls (n=14) to evaluate two loop suture techniques with #2 braided lactomer: incisions closed with either 1.0 cm × 1.5 cm or 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm suture-bite intervals in a continuous pattern, with bursting strength assessed using controlled abdominal insufflation to simulate postoperative tension. Both closure patterns demonstrated equivalent bursting pressures and comparable closure times, with fascial failure predominating over suture failure in both groups—a reassuring finding that indicates the suture material itself was not a limiting factor in wound security. Whilst statistical differences were absent, the 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm interval showed marginal practical advantages in reduced operative time and less foreign material retention within the wound, suggesting this wider spacing pattern warrants consideration for routine celiotomy closure, particularly in horses where minimising tissue trauma and suture burden may influence healing trajectories in the postoperative period.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Either suture interval pattern (1.0 × 1.5 cm or 1.5 × 1.5 cm) using #2 braided lactomer loop suture provides adequate bursting strength for equine abdominal wall closure during recovery and immediate postoperative period
- •Consider the 1.5 × 1.5 cm spacing to potentially reduce operative time and minimize foreign material left in the surgical site
- •Expect fascial failure as the primary mode of wound failure rather than suture failure, indicating the closure technique is not the limiting factor in abdominal wall integrity
Key Findings
- •No significant difference in bursting pressure between 1.0 cm × 1.5 cm and 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm suture intervals (both patterns adequate for abdominal wall closure)
- •Fascial failure was the predominant failure mode for both techniques; suture and knot failure were rare
- •The 1.5 cm × 1.5 cm pattern showed potential advantages in reduced closure time and less total suture material remaining in the wound