Adjustable sutures and methods of making and using same

Abstract

Abstract A surgical suture is made from materials which, upon the application of at least one source of non-frictional energy, such as may be imparted by using a laser, alter dimension. In essence, these sutures can be made to contract and/or expand after implantation in tissues and/or prosthetic materials. The absorbtion of energy may be enhanced by the addition to the suture material of an energy absorbing substance, and especially a substance that is selected to absorb radiation at the wavelength of a laser used to effect the dimensional change. Preferred sutures are comprised of cross-linked polyolefins. These fibers may also be formed into composite structures, such as a braided structure, to provide a composite suture having selectively alterable component suture elements.

Inventors

• 👤 Alexander M. Eaton
• 👤 Lemil M. Purut
• 👤 Francis A. L'esperance, Jr.

Bibliographic Details