Hand Surgeon Questions

“Removing permanent fiberwire stitches”

I severed my left index extensor tendon and part of my middle finger one too, and wrist capsule. They were repaired with fiberwire using a Kessler stitch. Is it physically possible with current technology to remove the permanent sutures? If not, what is the major hurdle? Does fiberwire show up on X-Ray? Please note: I am not looking to be advised on whether this is a good idea, medically necessary, not covered by insurance, or expensive, I just need someone who may have specialized knowledge and/or training that I am currently having trouble acquiring from just reading the literature to answer my question as to whether it can be done. Even if the answer is yes it can be done but not safely. Thank you.

Male | 41 years old

2 Answers

Yes, the sutures could eventually be removed, but it would likely require opening the incision all the way again, possibly even wider if there are significant adhesions. Also, if the sutures are removed and there is not complete healing of the tendon or if there is inadvertent loss of integrity of the tendon because of the removal of the fiber wire suture your surgeon may need to put additional sutures back in, either fiber wire or a different type like Prolene or PDS.
Fiber wire is not visible on Xray.
Normally the sutures are left in place in the tendon forever, unless they become symptomatic or infected, because if the risks involved in removing them outweighs the benefits if they are not symptomatic or infected.
Hellio,
It is not typical to remove sutures from a repaired tendon and I am curious as to why you want them removed.
Could you provide a little more detail?
Thanks
Dr. L