Suture Tensile Testing
Suture tensile testing provides researchers one of the key parameters when determining where the suture can be used and for how long it is intended to remain. Once in production this type of tensile testing is necessary to ensure the sutures meet the required design specifications. Typical suture tensile tests and recommended equipment are described below.
ADMET Universal Tensile Testing Machine-eXpert 7601 Configured for Suture Tensile Testing
Types of Suture tests
- Standard tensile test
- Knot tensile test (knot is centered between grips)
- Suture creep test (pull to a desired load and hold)
Recommended Equipment
- Frame: ADMET Universal Tensile Testing Machine-eXpert 7601, 1kN
- Controller: MTESTQuattro
- Grips: Pneumatic Rope and Thread Grips
*Recommended suture tensile testing configuration shown.
Procedure for straight pull
- Insert non-absorbable suture sample into pneumatic rope and thread grips. The guage length is typically 10 inches from grip to grip . It is very important that the sample is lined up properly or it will impact the results of the test.
- Set profile to pull suture at desire speed or load rate
- Test automatically stops at sample break
Results
Displayed results include tensile strength and peak load of the suture.
Reports for suture tensile testing can be customized using MTESTQuattro from ADMET and often include other properties such as knot pull strength, creep, and absorbable vs. non-absorbable sutures. In addition, cyclic tests can also be performed.
Suture sizes are defined by the United States Pharmacopeia (U.S.P.) Atraumatic needles are manufactured in all shapes for most sizes. The actual diameter of thread for a given U.S.P. size differs depending on the suture material class.
