Abstract: In the present invention, a gel-spun UHMWPE is subjected to secondary processing to reduce the concentration of the spin solvent(s) to acceptable levels before or after the fiber is woven with other fibers to form a suture. In the case of the spin solvent Decalin, it is well known that concentrations, in the fiber, of greater than 100 parts per million (ppm) render UHMWPE materials non-compatible with human tissues. Thus, UHMWPE materials that are to remain within the human body must have a Decalin concentration below 100 ppm to render them biocompatible. If desired, the suture may be braided about a core. The number of filaments in a single suture can vary between 4 and 24. Additionally, where a core structure is employed, up to 6 separate core filaments may be employed. Other materials such as PTFE, FEP, PFA, PVFD, PP, polyester, nylon, or aramid may be employed for the core and/or cover so long as spin solvent level has been reduced to below 100 ppm before or after twisting or braiding.

Abstract: A high strength suture is made from a LCP/polyester composite of braided filaments having a high coefficient of friction. Knots tied in a suture made from such braided filaments have a tendency to stay in place better than the prior art UHMWPE/polyester composite knots. The inventive suture may include a multifilament cover of fibers of LCP and/or LCP composite fibers. Where a core is employed, the core may be made up of twisted fibers of LCP and liquid crystal composite fibers. If desired, the composite fibers can be a combination of LCP and other polymers such as polyester, nylon, fluoropolymers such as FEP or PTFE or olefins such as polypropylene, polyethylene or UHMWPE. A low friction coating, such as silicone, may be applied over the outside surfaces of the suture.