Are Symmetrical Barbed Sutures an Advantage in Knee Arthroplasties? Prospective Analysis

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The number of knee replacements has increased significantly, and is projected to increase further by 2030. Wound closure is one of the research areas. Arthroplasties require a large incision to achieve adequate exposure. This implies long closure and healing times. Barbed sutures are not new as they were introduced in 1964. Since then, multiple improvements have been made to these sutures and their use has expanded to various fields. Despite the potential advantages, barbed sutures are not commonly used in knee replacements. This may be due to the higher cost and uncertain clinical benefits. The objective is to determine the effect of barbed sutures compared to traditional braided sutures in knee arthroplasties by analyzing certain clinical results. MATERIAL AND METHODS A prospective observational study was carried out analyzing the arthroplasties operated during one year. Those in which the barbed suture was used for the closure of the arthrotomy and/or subcutaneous cellular tissue were compared with those in which a traditional braided suture was used. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were observed between both sutures in terms of range of motion, functional status, and surgical complications. Regarding the time of surgery, a difference of 10 minutes was observed in favor of barbed sutures, the closure time being statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Barbed sutures contribute to greater surgical effectiveness, cost savings, surgical time, and comparable complication rates.