Tensile performance of nonsterile suture monofilaments affected by test conditions

Selection of a suture material typically depends on its tensile properties, but in the absence of an international standard test method, a comparison of properties is problematic. A series of experiments is conducted to determine the tensile performance of non-knotted and knotted non-sterile suture monofilaments, and the effect of test conditions on this performance. Using the ear and cut loop technique, the factorial experiment includes three gauge lengths, three crosshead speeds, three non-sterile suture monofilaments, and five knot configurations. Each combination of variables is replicated five times. Different test conditions affect the ultimate strain and tenacity of both knotted and non-knotted monofilaments. Ultimate strain values are lower with increasing gauge length (when tested at the same crosshead speed) and crosshead speed (when tested at the same gauge length). All monofilaments are characterized by higher tenacity values with increasing gauge length (at the same crosshead speed) and lower tenacity values with increasing crosshead speed (at the same gauge length). Load-extension curves and visual images of selected monofilament sutures are provided.