In-vivo study of tissue reaction to Crotalaria pallida and Sansevieria roxburghiana fibers.

BACKGROUND: A suture material producing least tissue reaction is considered as ideal. Other characteristics like tensile strength, capacity to sustain sterilization process enhance its acceptability. In the present situation there is a need to reascertain the relevance and utility of these materials. Among the suture materials mentioned by Sushrutacharya, Moorva (Sansevieria roxburghiana) and Shana (Crotalaria pallida) have been showed insignificant tissue reaction in operated cases of inguinal hernia. An experimental study to confirm the extent of tissue reaction in deeper planes is needed before extending the use of materials in the deep tissues.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to analyze deep tissue reaction and tensile strengths of plant fibres extracted from Crotalaria pallida and Sansevieria roxburghiana.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted on 18 albino rats, 3 groups of 6 rats each for a period of 21 days inserting the suture materials in deeper tissue, studying histopathology changes of the deeper connective tissues, hydroxyproline content and blood parameters on 7th, 14th, 21st days of the study. The tensile strength of the two materials was also assessed on 7th day in three different conditions. Statistical analysis was carried out using paired and unpaired t tests.

RESULTS: S. roxburghiana had least tissue reaction. C. pallida showed greater tensile strength in comparison to Moorva.

CONCLUSION: C. pallida can be used for deep tissue approximation because of its moderate tissue reaction and tensile strength, successive increase in hydroxyproline content and its capacity to sustain sterilization.