Experimental suture studies in strabismus surgery. II. Comparison of tensile strength of plain catgut with polyglycolic acid (Dexon) sutures after extraocular muscle surgery.

From our experimental studies it appears Dexon satisfies more of the criteria for an ideal suture for strabismus surgery than plain catgut for the following reasons. Its handling, tying, and knot-holding (if tighthened firmly) qualities are excellent. Tissue reaction is minimal. It seems to be non-antigenic. Of paramount importance. Dexon's tensile strength is high initially and it retains its strength through the critical period of muscle-scleral wound healing, then dissolves in a rapid uniform manner.