A new knot technique for vessel ligatures

A new technique for ligating vessels and similar structures that offers more security is described. The aim of the study was to test whether this hypothesis was correct. Six different types of knots, including the one described in this article were compared by a strength-testing study. The knots were tied on a silicon tube through which a constant air flow of 795.10 mmHg of pressure circulated. Tension of 2 kg was then applied to both loose ends of the suture filament (polyglyconate n°1 gauge) for 25 seconds. Then, 15 seconds after the tension was released an overpressure of 2250.31 mmHg was applied to the system. Two computerized pressure sensors were applied to both ends of the tube. The newly described knot reached the highest strangulating force (997.63 mmHg) and had the highest resistance to slippage. From these results, we conclude that the new knot is far more secure for vessel and duct ligature and that it represents a new and useful tool for surgeons in both open and laparoscopic surgery. © 2005 by the Société Internationale de Chirurgie.