Arce, José, et al. International Journal of Dentistry, 2019, 1, 7419708.
This work compared the in vitro tensile strength of three suture materials, including polylactic acid 910 (PG) multifilament absorbable suture, non-absorbable multifilament black braided silk (BS), and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) non-absorbable suture, under immersion time in artificial saliva.
Experimental methods and results
· Experimental methods: A total of 150 samples were divided among each type of suture and further subdivided into five groups based on different immersion times (baseline, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days) in artificial saliva. Tensile strength was measured using a universal test machine at a speed of 25 cm/min, and the maximum force in Newtons (N) required for detachment was recorded.
· Key results: 1) Polyglactin (PG) exhibited stable tensile strength over various immersion times, with the highest strength observed on day 21, showing no statistically significant difference in tensile strength over time (p = 0.522). 2) Black silk (BS) demonstrated decreasing tensile strength with immersion time, and statistical analysis revealed significant differences (p = 0.001), indicating instability in resistance to tension over time. 3) PTFE suture maintained dimensional stability and consistent tensile strength over different immersion times, with no statistically significant differences (p = 0.094).
· The study suggests that PTFE suture material is a good option due to its stability over time, smooth surface, and low bacterial plaque accumulation, making it a favorable choice for oral surgeries.