Evaluation of Metronidazole and Povidone Iodine Coated Vs Non-Coated Sutures Against Specific Periodontal Pathogens: A Comparative Analysis

Sutures are essential after surgery as they allow for tissue re-approximation, stimulate early healing, and regulate bleeding. To avoid postoperative suture related complications like surgical site infection due to wicking effect, various antimicrobial agents have been incorporated into sutures. In this study, black silk suture was scoured for impurities and coated with metronidazole and povidone-iodine for comparison with the uncoated suture. Blood agar plates were prepared and inoculated with putative periodontal pathogens. The three groups of sutures were studied for their action against specific microbe by measuring the zone of inhibition. Based on the statistical analysis, it is established that povidone iodine and metronidazole coated suture have higher antimicrobial efficacy when compared to non-coated suture against anaerobic periodontal pathogens.