The effects of four different suture materials on penile tissue of rats

An Experimental Design to Compare the Compatibility of Absorbable and Nonabsorbable Suture Materials in the Lateral Canthus Area

Polyglactin 910 (Vicryl) and polypropylene (Prolene) are common suture materials used in ophthalmic surgical procedures. However, there are limited studies assessing tissue reactions to different sutures in eyelid areas. In this study, these suture materials were used subcutaneously in 10 lateral canthi of 5 pigs. Clinical reactive score (CRS) was assessed 14 days and 60 days after surgery. On histology, subcutaneous tissue reactions were assessed by the presence of different inflammatory cells, and the aggregate tissue irritation score was calculated. CRS and the histology score did not differ between these sutures. None of the suture materials used were superior for use in the lateral canthi of pig eyes. Therefore, we recommend both of these sutures for use in the subcutaneous tissue of the eyelid area in animal experiments or clinical practice.

Long-Term Results after Surgical Treatment of Congenital Penile Curvature Using a Modified Nesbit Technique

PURPOSE

Congenital penile curvature (CPC) is a rare condition with surgical correction being the standard therapy. In the current study, we report long-term results analyzing the surgical and functional outcomes using a modified Nesbit technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with CPC were included. After penile degloving and mobilization of the neurovascular bundle an artificial erection was performed. An ellipsoid part of the tunica albuginea was excised at the point of maximum curvature on the convex side of deviation. The tunical defect was then closed by interrupted absorbable sutures with inverted knots. Results of correction were documented intra- and postoperatively by artificial erection. Pre- and postoperative evaluation included measurement of penile length and curvature after pharmacological erection. Erectile function, alteration in glans sensation, palpable suture as well as short- and long-term complication were also recorded using validated questionnaires and objective examinations.

RESULTS

Fifty-five patients with mean age 26.93 years (14-66 years) and mean curvature 69.81° (25°-90°) were included in the study. Ventral or ventrolateral curvature was observed in 83.6%. Mean operative time was 106.8 minutes (55-169 minutes). Totally straightness of the penis was achieved in 51/55 patients (92.8%). After a mean long-term follow-up of 36.68 months (4-87 months), erectile function worsened in 3.6% of patients. Median penile length loss associated with this technique was 1.7 cm (0-3.0 cm).

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical therapy of CPC using our modified Nesbit technique is feasible, safe and provides reliable long-term outcomes, representing an alternative for surgical correction of CPC.