[Experimental studies on the role of suture materials in the healing of anastomoses of the colon. Mechanical and histological study].

The relation between suture material and consolidation and healing in operations on the colon was investigated by using silk and catgut in one group of disinfected stray dogs subjected to right or left hemicolectomy and resection of the transverse portion, and a synthetic reabsorbable material (polyglycolic acid) in another. The following parameters were assessed following removal of the segment containing the anastomosis after various periods of time: resistance to biomechanical tests, stenosis of the lumen, extent and duration of inflammation and regeneration at the edge. Reabsorbable material was associated with less overall inflammation and healing was more rapid. Consolidation of the suture was not significantly different in the two groups.