Evaluation of polyglycolic aicd sutures in colon anastomoses.

An experimental study was carried out in dogs to compare the healing characteristics of colon anastomoses constructed with silk and catgut, with those in which Dexon sutures of the same gauge were used. Anastomoses constructed with Dexon sutures showed minimal suture reaction on the serosal surfaces, and excellent healing strength as determined by bursting-pressure studies. Inspection of the mucosal surfaces in these anastomoses revealed flawless, smooth, healing suture lines. The flexibility of tissues at the anastomotic line was found to be good, and friability of tissue minimal.