Robust Suture Combination for Rat Flexor Tendon Repair Model

Purpose We aimed to develop a rat flexor tendon repair model that could be applied to experiments in similar clinical settings. Methods We prepared 3 different combinations of sutures in rat flexor tendons: group A had 3 single peripheral sutures plus a 2-strand core suture; group B had 3 figure-of-eight peripheral sutures alone; and group C had 3 figure-of-eight peripheral sutures plus a 2-strand core suture. We examined the in vitro tensile strength of the repaired tendons by a biomechanical test, the rerupture rate within 3 weeks, and histological findings in vivo. Results Group C displayed the greatest ultimate strength by the mechanical test. The flexor tendons in group C did not rerupture within 3 weeks after surgery, whereas many of those in groups A and B reruptured. Fibrous scar tissue was observed in the gap of the tendon stumps in groups A and B, but not in group C. Conclusions The combination of figure-of-eight peripheral sutures and a 2-strand core suture provided the repaired rat flexor tendon with enough strength to prevent rerupture without cast fixation or immobilization after surgery. Clinical relevance This combination of sutures is useful to reproduce flexor tendon repair similar to that performed in clinical settings and will contribute to various translational experiments in vivo.