Value of Colored Fiber For Orthopedic Procedures to Spectra® MG BIO

Colored sutures are playing an increasingly important role in orthopedic procedures because they allow surgeons to delineate between different surgical implants, giving them more control and confidence. This leads to smaller, more precise incisions – which means less pain, fewer complications, less scarring, shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries and lower total cost of care.
 
Sutures – both colored and non-colored – can be made of nylon or polyester, both of which are strong, light and non-absorbable. However, these materials also have their downsides.
 
Nylon sutures are commonly available as monofilament structures designed for use in ligation or general cardiovascular, neurological, or ophthalmic soft tissue procedures; or as braided structures designed for soft tissue procedures. The trouble is, monofilament nylon degrades between 15-20% per year via hydrolysis while braided nylon loses 15-20% of its tensile strength annually.
 
Meanwhile polyester sutures – braided strands coated with polybutilate – – if special knots are not used – offer poor handling and knot security.
 
So, is there a better option?
 
Spectra® MG BIO is Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber that is arguably superior to both polyester and nylon for many orthopedic soft tissue procedures. 
 
Spectra® MG BIO is fifteen times stronger than steel and three times stronger than polyester while still being ultra-lightweight. Spectra’s high strength to weight ratio makes it an optimal material for orthopedic applications as it enables smaller diameter suture designs helping to reduce the overall medical device footprint in surgical procedures. In addition, the material provides superior resistance to chemicals, fatigue and abrasion compared to conventional polyethylene, nylon, polyester, or steel cables.  Spectra® MG BIO is also available in a unique blue hue that offers a stark contrast with surrounding tissues. Spectra® MG BIO Blue is a colored 100% UHMWPE fiber that can be braided into a high strength suture. Spectra® MG BIO Blue can be used alone or with Spectra® MG BIO (white) without the need to use nylon or polyester in its braid to create multiple patterns and combinations enabling surgeons to properly manage many sutures. For the surgeon, 100% UHMWPE suture translates to outstanding knot security with precise knot placement, a smooth tie down and a higher resistance to fraying. 
 
In 2021 Spectra MG BIO was awarded the ISO 13485 certification, proving Spectra Medical Fiber products meet the highest quality management standards in the medical device manufacturing industry.
 
With its vibrant color and the inherent performance characteristics of UHMWPE, Spectra® MG BIO provides a compelling option for complex orthopedic surgeries as the soft tissue repair market grows.