ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the mechanical properties of sutures that are important for suture use including: tensile properties; tensile strength retention; stiffness and flexibility; viscoelasticity; and knot strength and security. A comprehensive study of the tensile properties of seven commonly used suture materials, employing a new grip device, is the beginning of an awareness of the importance of such a fundamental characterization of suture materials. The retention of their tensile strength and the rate of tensile strength loss are vital factors in their usefulness in wound healing. The stiffness of a suture material determines its performance in terms of handling characteristics and knot strength and security, particularly in closing wounds with small loops. Viscoelasticity, a typical characteristic of large molecules, makes plastic materials respond less ideally than those materials with complete elastic characteristics.
