Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Orthopedy, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
2
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3
Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
4
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
5
Trauma Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
Abstract
Background: Hand extensor tendons, which are prone to injury due to their superficial location and limited protection, have traditionally been repaired using non-absorbable sutures. However, these sutures can lead to complications such as irritation and contour defects.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to explore the potential of absorbable Polyglactin 910 sutures in improving functional recovery in extensor tendon repair compared to nylon, with the aim of reducing postoperative complications.
Methods: This prospective cohort study included 118 patients who underwent extensor tendon repair using Polyglactin 910 or nylon sutures at Kashan Shahid Beheshti and Naghavi Hospitals in 2024. Demographic data, injury characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were collected from hospital records and follow-up assessments. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: The two groups were clinically and demographically comparable, with no significant differences in baseline characteristics, injury severity, or surgeon distribution. Postoperative outcomes showed no significant differences in infection, pain, or wound dehiscence. However, reduced range of motion at 1 month was observed more frequently in the nylon group (30.4% vs. 13.6%, p = 0.043), and foreign body sensation at 3 months was also higher in the nylon group (10.8% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.048). These findings suggest that Polyglactin 910 sutures may provide improved early mobility and a lower incidence of late inflammatory reactions compared with nylon sutures.
Conclusion: Polyglactin 910 sutures were associated with reduced complications, such as improved range of motion and lower foreign-body sensation while showing no significant differences in infection rates or pain compared to nylon sutures. These findings suggest that Polyglactin 910 is preferable for extensor tendon repair, particularly in cases where minimizing inflammatory reactions and preserving mobility are of critical importance. Further studies with more extended follow-up periods are recommended to confirm these results.
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