A suture model for surgical simulation

Abstract. In this paper, we propose a surgical thread model in order for surgeons to practice a suturing task. We first model the thread as a spline animated by continuous mechanics. The suture is simulated via so-called ”sliding point ” constraints, which allow the spline to move freely while constrained to pass through specific piercing points. The direction of the spline at these points can also be imposed. Moreover, to enhance realism, an adapted model of friction is proposed, which allows the thread to remain fixed at the piercing point or slides through it. Our model yields to good results showing realistic behavior, robust computation and interactive rates.