Effect of commonly used surgical solutions on the tensile strength of absorbable sutures: an in-vitro study.

BACKGROUND: Within recent decades the use of various surgical solutions to prevent bleeding, ward off infection or decrease post-operative pain has become common-place in orthopaedic procedures. However, little work has been done to determine the effects that these solutions have on the tensile strength of various sutures, particularly those that are used for deep closures, which are often absorbable in nature. Whilst numerous authors have attempted to reach conclusions regarding the nature of these effects, a consensus has yet to be reached and this paper is designed with the aim to contribute to the current literature on the subject and improve surgical practice. METHODS: This in-vitro study incubated three different surgical sutures in five commonly used surgical solutions at 37°C for 30 min, prior to applying a constant increase in force to determine the effects these solutions have on tensile strength. A control set was included. RESULTS: No significant difference was found in the tensile strength of Vicryl and PDS-II sutures, whilst Monocryl incubated in chlorhexidine exhibited a borderline significant increase in tensile strength. CONCLUSIONS: Common surgical solutions used on orthopaedic procedures can impact on the tensile strength of suture materials; however, further research is required on the subject.

Closed reduction of paediatric forearm fractures: nitrous oxide versus general anaesthetic.

BACKGROUND: Nitrous oxide with intranasal fentanyl is safe and effective in performing closed reduction of paediatric forearm fractures; however, the difference in outcome when compared to those performed under general anaesthesia (GA) is unclear. We aim to compare the outcomes of closed reduction of paediatric forearm fractures under nitrous oxide versus GA. METHODS: This retrospective study based on a prospective change in protocol reviewed the medical records and radiographs of patients with forearm fractures who presented to a tertiary paediatric centre, and who subsequently underwent closed reduction under either nitrous or GA. Data on patient demographics, type and site of fracture and the method of casting were collected. The primary outcomes were loss of reduction, the need for repeat intervention and the rate of complications. RESULTS: There were 301 and 362 patients in the nitrous and GA groups respectively. The overall re-intervention rate was 7.6% in the nitrous group versus 5.0% in the GA group (P = 0.155). There was no significant difference in loss of reduction which involved 9.0% in the nitrous group and 11.3% in the GA group (P = 0.320). There was no significance difference in overall complications. Nausea and vomiting comprised the majority of adverse events. CONCLUSION: Closed reduction of paediatric forearm fractures performed under nitrous oxide with intranasal fentanyl is safe, effective and achieves comparable re-intervention rates and adverse events to those performed under GA in the operating theatre.