A comparison between interrupted and continuous suturing techniques in keratoplasty.

A comparison between continuous and interrupted techniques of suturing in penetrating keratoplasties was made using autologous grafts in rabbits. Wound strength was determined using both a tensiometer and blow-out pressure measurements. Histologic examination of the wounds was also carried out, and clinical observations were made of the behavior of vascular growth through the wound in prevascularized corneas to further characterize the suturing techniques and the healing process. We found no difference in blow-out pressures between the two groups, but a significant increase in healing in the interrupted suture group, as measured by the tensiometer, was observed. Other differences were noted in the clinical course and histology, including a greater ease of vessels traversing the wound and more inflammatory cells in the wound area with interrupted sutures.