[Review of the physical and surgical technical properties of modern monofilament suture materials].

This paper documents the differences among 8 monofile sutures in important functions such as linear tensile strength, bending stiffness, knot security and irreversible elongation. The results show that two materials (Prolene and Gore-Tex) do not seem to be as suitable as the other materials for long-term tensile loads. The lowest bending stiffness was that of Seralon. The highest knot security can already be reached with three loops of Novafil. Novafil has also got the highest maximal elongation. The knowledge of the different applications of suture materials tested in important practical functions, is the supposition to the right and secure use of suture materials.