Fixation technique of biodegradable magnesium alloy suture anchor in the rotator cuff repair of the shoulder in a goat model: a technical note.

BACKGROUND: Shoulder disorders, particularly rotator cuff tears, are prevalent musculoskeletal conditions related to aging. Although the widely used suture anchor technique provides strong mechanical support to the tendon, it is associated with a risk of postoperative tendon retearing. The conventionally used titanium alloys can affect the interpretation of magnetic resonance imaging. Degradable magnesium alloys possess excellent biocompatibility, similar mechanical property to the bone, and stimulating bone formation ability from Mg2+. The purpose of this experiment was to develop innovative magnesium-based suture anchors to enhance rotator cuff repair by improving fixation materials, and to evaluate their feasibility in a goat model. METHODS: We developed fluoridized ZK60 suture anchors as the implantation material for two goats, who underwent rotator cuff repair surgery on both shoulders. Computed tomography (CT) and histological analysis were performed at 12 weeks postoperatively, and the results were compared between the magnesium and titanium alloy groups. Additionally, a hematological examination was conducted, which included assessments of red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, coagulation function, liver function, kidney function, and magnesium ion concentration. RESULTS: The 12-week postoperative CT images showed intact MgF2 ZK60 suture anchors, effectively reconnecting the infraspinatus tendon to the humeral head. The anchors became less visible on CT scans, indicating absorption by surrounding tissues. New bone formation in the MgF2 group surpassed that in the Ti group, demonstrating superior osseointegration. The similarity between cortical bone and magnesium reduced stress-shielding and promoted bone regeneration. Histological analysis revealed successful tendon healing with MgF2 anchors, while the Ti group showed discontinuous interfaces and reduced collagen secretion. Hematological examination showed stable liver, renal function, and magnesium ion levels. CONCLUSIONS: The findings indicate that MgF2-coated suture anchors are feasible for rotator cuff repair and potentially other orthopedic applications. We hope that magnesium alloy anchors can become the solution for rotator cuff tendon repair surgery.

3D-printed porous titanium suture anchor: a rabbit lateral femoral condyle model.

BACKGROUND: The inclusion of a connecting path in a porous implant can promote nutrient diffusion to cells and enhance bone ingrowth. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical, radiographic, and histopathological performance of a novel 3D-printed porous suture anchor in a rabbit femur model. METHODS: Three test groups were formed based on the type of suture anchor (SA): Commercial SA (CSA, Group A, n = 20), custom solid SA (CSSA, Group B, n = 20), and custom porous SA (CPSA, Group C, n = 20). The SAs were implanted in the lateral femoral condyle of the right leg in each rabbit. The rabbits (New Zealand white rabbits, male, mean body weight of 2.8 ± 0.5 kg, age 8 months) underwent identical treatment and were randomized into experimental and control groups via computer-generated randomization. Five rabbits (10 femoral condyles) were euthanized at 0, 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-implantation for micro-CT, histological analysis, and biomechanical testing. RESULTS: At 12 weeks, the CPSA showed a higher BV/TV (median 0.7301, IQR 0.7276-0.7315) than the CSSA and CSA. The histological analysis showed mineralized osteocytes near the SA. At 4 weeks, new bone was observed around the CPSA and had penetrated its porous structure. By 12 weeks, there was no significant difference in ultimate failure load between the CSA and CPSA. CONCLUSIONS: We demonstrated that the innovative 3D-printed porous suture anchor exhibited comparable pullout strength to conventional threaded suture anchors at the 12-week postoperative time-point period. Furthermore, our porous anchor design enhanced new bone formation and facilitated bone growth into the implant structure, resulting in improved biomechanical stability.

Extensor tendon rupture and preoperative mri confirmations of suture anchor prolapse: a case report and literature review.

BACKGROUND: While suture anchors are widely used in medical procedures for their advantages, they can sometimes lead to complications, including anchor prolapse. This article presents a unique case of suture anchor prolapse at the base of the distal phalanx of the little finger after extensor tendon rupture reconstruction surgery. CASE PRESENTATION: A 35-year-old male, underwent extensor tendon rupture reconstruction using a non-absorbable suture anchor. After seven years the patient visited our outpatients complaining of stiffness, pain, and protrusion at the surgical site. Initial X-ray imaging suggested suggesting either a fracture of the distal phalanx or tendon adhesion but lacked a definitive diagnosis. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bone connectivity between the middle and distal phalanges with irregular signal shadow and unclear boundaries while maintaining a regular finger shape. MRI proved superior in diagnosing prolapsed suture anchors, marking the first reported case of its kind. Surgical intervention confirmed MRI findings. CONCLUSIONS: Suture anchor complications, such as prolapse, are a concern in medical practice. This case underscores the significance of MRI for accurate diagnosis and the importance of tailored surgical management in addressing this uncommon complication.

Comparing the Outcomes of Suture Anchor Repair and Rein-Type Capsular Suture for Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Foveal Tears With a Minimum 2-Year Follow-Up.

PURPOSE: Recent biomechanical studies have highlighted the importance of foveal reinsertion when repairing triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury with foveal tears. However, clinical studies comparing different repair techniques are scarce. We compared the clinical outcomes of suture anchor repair and rein-type capsular suture in patients with TFCC palmer 1B foveal tears with a minimum of 2-year follow-up. METHODS: This was a single-surgeon, single-center, retrospective, comparative study. We included patients who underwent TFCC repair surgery due to a foveal tear from December 2013 to October 2018 with a minimum follow-up of 24 months. Postoperative Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH) score, Modified Mayo Wrist Score, visual analogue scale for pain, wrist range of motion, and grip strength were compared. We also measured the maximal ulnar head displacement with dynamic ultrasound to quantify distal radioulnar joint stability. RESULTS: In total, 103 patients were in the suture anchor group (group A) and 84 patients in the rein-type capsular suture group (group B). The mean follow-up time exceeded three years for both groups. There was a minimal difference regarding QuickDASH score, visual analogue scale for pain, and grip strength ratio between the two groups. The rein-type group had significantly better Modified Mayo Wrist Score. The suture anchor group showed better distal radioulnar joint stability with dynamic ultrasound, but was more limited in ulnar deviation. However, these differences are most likely clinically insignificant. CONCLUSIONS: Both suture anchor repair and rein-type capsular suture yielded satisfactory results for TFCC 1B foveal tear in a minimum of 2-year follow-up. The functional scores were similar, and no major complications or recurrent instability were noted in either group. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective Therapeutic Comparative Investigation IV.

Pectoralis major tendon rupture repairs using intramedullary suture anchors shows high patient-reported outcomes in military service members.

BACKGROUND: In the general population, pectoralis major tendon ruptures are uncommon; however, it is a common injury in the military population. The military service members have greater physical demands than the general population. The purpose of this study is to critically assess the postoperative outcomes of pectoralis major tendon ruptures in military service members following a repair using intramedullary suture anchors. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed between 2014 and 2022, identifying patients who underwent a pectoralis major rupture repair performed by the senior surgeon using intramedullary suture anchors. Records were reviewed for age, gender, mechanism of injury, chronicity, visual analog scale, and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores. Patients who had less than 1 year of follow-up were excluded from the study. During the study period, 18 patients underwent surgical repair of their torn pectoralis major, and 15 patients were followed up >1 year postoperatively. Twelve of these 15 patients (80%) were successfully contacted, and patient-reported outcomes were collected. RESULTS: A total of 12 patients (12 male, 0 female) with a mean age of 34.5 years were identified. Average time from injury to surgery was 471.4 days. Average duration of follow-up was 3.7 years. There was a decrease in the preoperative average single repetition maximum (1RM) barbell bench press of 125.7 kg (277 lbs) to a postoperative average 1RM bench press of 101.8 kg (225 lbs) (P = .03). Mean change in average 1RM barbell bench press is a 19.04% decrease postoperatively. Postoperative SANE score was 80.8 and an American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form score of 86.9. Seven patients (58.3%) stated they were afraid to bench press at their previous weight because of fear of reinjury. None of the patients were medically discharged from the military owing to limitations from their repaired shoulder. Ten patients (83%) reported they were extremely satisfied with their shoulder function postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Repair of the pectoralis major tendon ruptures using intramedullary suture anchors has high rates of return to duty, patient satisfaction, and patient-reported outcomes. More than half of the patients reported they were afraid to bench press at their preinjury weight because of concerns of reinjury; the decrease in postoperative strength may be a result of the patients' fear of reinjury rather than physiologic limitations.

Arthroscopic Suture Anchor Fixation Results in Similar Clinical Outcomes, Less Range of Motion Limitation but Poorer Quality of Reduction compared to Open Screw Fixation for Acute Large Anterior Glenoid Rim Fractures.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present study was to retrospectively compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of arthroscopic suture anchor fixation and open screw fixation for acute large anterior glenoid rim fractures. METHODS: This study enrolled patients with acute large anterior glenoid rim fractures treated with arthroscopic suture anchor fixation (group A) or open screw fixation (group O) from January 2013 to June 2020 with a minimum follow-up of＞2 years. The Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Rowe score, Constant score, range of motion (ROM), recurrent instability rate, and complications were recorded as clinical results. The quality of the postoperative reduction, reconstructed glenoid sizes, rate of fracture healing, and progression of osteoarthritis (OA) were evaluated as radiological outcomes. RESULTS: This retrospective study included 66 patients, including 37 in Group A and 29 in Group O with a mean follow-up of 46.9 (range, 24.3-94.2) months and a mean patient age of 46.8 (range, 21-69) years. No significant differences were found in the clinical outcomes between the two groups. A significant ROM limitation in all planes was found in both groups and group O showed more limitations in external rotation at the side (ERs) (18° vs. 10°, P = 0.002). The reduction quality was better in group O (P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of reconstructed glenoid size (101.6% ± 4.6% vs. 100.6% ± 7.1%, P = 0.460) and the rate of OA progression (26.9% vs. 20%, P = 0.525). CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic suture anchor fixation and open screw fixation achieved similar clinical outcomes, reconstructed glenoid sizes, and OA progression in patients with acute large anterior glenoid rim fractures. Arthroscopic suture fixation showed a poorer quality of reduction but less ERs limitations.

Incidence of Medial Deltoid Ligament Instability in 226 Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability.

The deltoid ligament is vitally important in the stability of the ankle and preventing excessive medial ankle movement. Historically, the impact of medial ankle instability has not been well understood in the setting of chronic ankle instability. A retrospective review of 226 patients treated for ankle instability between 2017 and 2022 identified 40 patients who required both medial and lateral repair. Decision for medial deltoid repair was based upon patient presentation, MRI findings, intraoperative fluoroscopy and final confirmation via arthroscopic positive "drive-through sign". Preoperative and postoperative American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot-ankle scores, Patient-Recorded Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores, and Karlsson-Peterson Ankle Function (K&P) scores were obtained and compared. There were statistically significant improvements found in all 3 scoring systems at a mean follow-up time of 11.7 months postoperatively. In the setting of chronic ankle instability, consideration should be given to the evaluation and potential repair of the deltoid ligament in order to provide sufficient stability to the medial ankle.

Impact of BMI on the Surgical Management of Chronic Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy.

Posterior heel pain secondary to insertional Achilles tendinopathy is a common condition that often times requires surgical management. Typically, this involves reflecting a portion of the Achilles tendon from its insertion to adequately debride devitalized or thickened tendon as well as any osseous prominence and then reattached into the calcaneus via suture anchors. Oftentimes, it is suggested that patients with an increased body mass index (BMI) have a higher risk of complications. However, there is no published evidence to support this claim. The present study is a retrospective review of 78 patients who underwent detachment/reattachment of the Achilles tendon for chronic insertional Achilles tendinopathy. Patients were separated into three groups based on BMI: normal, obese, and morbidly obese. The mean BMI of all patients included was 35.6 kg/m2 (range: 21.8-54.9, SD: 6.9). We compared complication rates between the groups and found no significant difference (p = .541). Patients in all groups also demonstrated statistically significant improvements in both American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot-ankle scores (Normal BMI: p = .002; Obese: p = <.001; Morbidly obese: p = <.001) and Patient-Recorded Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) scores (Normal BMI: p = .003; Obese: p = <.001; Morbidly obese: p = .001). In conclusion, the results of our study demonstrate that detachment/reattachment of the Achilles insertion in the management of insertional Achilles tendinopathy in obese and morbidly obese patients may be safe and effective without the risk of increased complications.

[Comparison between different anchors for zone I flexor tendon repair]. / Comparaison des différentes ancres dans les réinsertions transosseuses de tendons fléchisseurs profonds en zone I.

INTRODUCTION: Transosseous reinsertion has been used to complement the Bunnell pull-out technique in the repair of zone I deep flexor tendon injuries. The aim of this study is to compare the different devices on the market in terms of complication, functional recovery and ease of use. MATERIAL AND METHOD: This is a single-center study including all patients who underwent transosseous anchor reinsertion from 2010 to 2021 with a minimum of 6 months of follow-up. Twenty-seven patients were included. The anchors used were of different types: Microfix® Quickanchor plus® and Miniquick anchor® from DePuy Mitek; Juggerknot® Soft Anchor 1.0mm from Zimmer-Biomet; or Kerifix® 4.0 from KeriMedical. We analyzed intraoperative data, complications and functional recovery by quickDASH score. RESULTS: The average age was 38.6 years (± 16.1), the demographic characteristics were identical in the different groups. There was a significant difference in the number of anchors used intraoperatively before definitive placement (P=0.02), to the disadvantage of the Juggerknot® anchors. There was no significant difference in terms of complications and functional recovery evaluated by the quickDASH. CONCLUSION: Our study did not find significant differences between the different anchors in terms of complications and functional recovery. Some anchors seem to have a better grip during placement than others.

Single-row versus transosseous technique in the arthroscopic treatment of rotator cuff tears: a meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: This study aims to compare single-row suture-anchors (SA) versus transosseous arthroscopic (TO) technique in the treatment of patients with rotator cuff tears in terms of clinical structural outcomes at atleast 24 months of follow-up. METHODS: The systematic review was performed according to "PRISMA guidelines" (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses), in order to identify all the studies comparing clinical, both subjective and objective, outcomes with 24 months follow-up minimum in patients undergoing arthroscopic RC repair with the SR and TO technique. OVID-MEDLINE®, Cochrane, SCOPUS and PubMed were searched from January 2010 to October 2022 to identify relevant studies, using the following key words, that were combined together to achieve maximum search strategy sensitivity: "Rotator cuff tear" OR "repair" OR "shoulder" OR "reconstruction" OR "suture" OR "arthroscopic" OR "single-row" OR "transosseous". RESULTS: Six papers were finally analyzed in this meta-analysis. The weighted mean difference on Constant scores and for ASES for studies considering suture-anchors (SA) group showed good outcomes. The weighted mean difference of Constant scores and of ASES for TO (transosseous) group showed good outcomes. The weighted mean difference of CONSTANT for TO versus SA groups showed no differences in the outcomes of SA and TO techniques for the repair of Rotator Cuff Tears at minimum 24 months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: The Arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repair technique and SA (suture-anchor) technique both lead to significant short-term improvement and satisfactory subjective outcome scores with low complication/failure rates. No differences were found in the final outcome between the two techniques.

Comparison between arthroscopic suture anchor fixation and open plate fixation in the greater tuberosity fracture of the proximal humerus.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients undergoing open reduction and internal fixation (OR/IF) using a plate or patients undergoing an arthroscopic suture anchor fixation for the greater tuberosity (GT) fracture of the proximal humerus. The purpose of this study is to compare the clinical and radiological outcomes of patients undergoing OR/IF or an arthroscopic suture anchor fixation for the GT fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January, 2010 and December, 2020, 122 patients with GT fracture underwent operative fixation. Either OR/IF using proximal humeral locking plate (50 patients) or arthroscopic suture anchor (72 patients) fixation was performed. Fourteen patients were lost to follow-up and finally, 108 patients were enrolled in this study. We divided these patients into two groups: (1) OR/IF group (Group I: 44 patients) and arthroscopic anchor fixation group (Group II: 64 patients). The primary outcome was subjective shoulder function (shoulder functional scale). Secondary outcomes were range of motion, and complications including GT fixation failure, fracture migration, or neurologic complication. Also, age, sex, BMI, operation time, shoulder dislocation, fracture comminution, AP (anteroposterior), SI (superoinferior) size and displacement were evaluated and compared between two groups. RESULTS: Both groups showed satisfactory clinical and radiological outcomes at mid-term follow-up. Between 2 groups, there were no significant differences in age, sex, BMI, presence of shoulder dislocation or comminution. Group II showed higher clinical scores except VAS score (p < 0.05) and longer surgical times (95.3 vs. 61.5 min). Largest fracture displacement (Group I vs. II: SI displacement: 40 vs. 13 mm, and AP displacement: 49 vs. 11 mm) and higher complication rate (p = 0.049) was found in Group I. CONCLUSIONS: Both arthroscopic anchor fixation and open plate fixation methods showed satisfactory outcomes at mid-term follow-up. Among them, OR/IF is preferred for larger fracture displacement (> 5 mm) and shorter operation time However, arthroscopic anchor fixation group showed better clinical outcomes and less complications than the OR/IF group. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4, Case series with subgroup analysis.

Outcomes of distal biceps repair at two-year follow-up.

PURPOSE: This single-centre study aimed to review the postoperative outcomes of distal biceps avulsion repair using a single incision with the endo-button technique. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed of a single surgeon series of distal biceps repairs performed consecutively from September 2016 to September 2020. At two years, outcome measures included Oxford Elbow Score (OES), range of movement (ROM), complications and ongoing issues. RESULTS: Forty-five distal biceps tendon repairs were performed on 43 patients with a mean follow-up of 3.2 years (1.1-5.3). The average OES was 46 (11-48), and 90% of patients recovered a comparable range of movement to the contralateral side. Two patients developed re-rupture (4%) on days 0 and 9 of surgery, but there were no late re-ruptures of the repair. CONCLUSION: Short-term outcomes from distal biceps tendon repair show low complication rates, high patient satisfaction and good functional outcomes. The results would support acute surgical treatment of active, working-age, patients with distal biceps tendon ruptures.

Comparison of suture-bridge and independent double-row techniques for medium to massive posterosuperior cuff tears: a two-year retrospective study.

BACKGROUND: Transosseous-equivalent suture-bridge (TOE-SB) and independent double-row (IDR) repair techniques were developed to treat rotator cuff tears. The study was designed to prove that both TOE-SB and IDR techniques provided comparable clinical results and retear rate for medium to massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears, while the surgical time and number of suture anchor used were less in the IDR group. STUDY DESIGN: Level of evidence: level III, Retrospective comparative study. METHODS: Patients with medium to massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears receiving arthroscopic TOE-SB and IDR between November 2016 to October 2019 were retrospectively enrolled. All patients were confirmed to have grade ≤ 2 fatty infiltration in the muscles of the torn tendons. Revision, concomitant subscapularis tear, acromiohumeral distance < 7 mm, glenohumeral osteoarthritis, partial repair, incomplete repair, partial thickness, or irreparable posterosuperior cuff tear were excluded. Surgical time, number of suture anchor used for the surgery, pre-operative, and post-operative clinical scores such as Constant-Murley score, subjective shoulder value (SSV), and visual analog scale (VAS) were compared. The retear rates between groups were evaluated by ultrasound. RESULTS: Thirty-five IDR and thirty-five TOE-SB repairs were enrolled. The IDR technique required much fewer anchors than TOE-SB did to complete the cuff repair. The mean operation time in IDR and TOE-SB group were 86(18.23), and 114(18.7) (min), respectively (P <  0.01). The mean number of anchors used to complete the cuff repair was 2(0.17) in IDR and 3(0.61) in TOE-SB (P <  0.01). The Constant-Murley score improved from 34.9 ± 6.6 to 80.6 ± 9.4 in the IDR group, and 37.4 ± 6 to 81.9 ± 4.6 in the TOE-SB group (both P <  0.001). SSV improved from 24.6 ± 9.6 to 79.3 ± 10.6 in the IDR, and 27.9 ± 9 to 82.9 ± 6.9 in the TOE-SB group (both P <  0.001). VAS improved from 7.9 ± 0.6 to 1.5 ± 0.7 in the IDR, and 8 ± 0.5 to 1.3 ± 0.6 in the TOE-SB group (both P <  0.001) at final follow-up. No significant difference was found between the retear rates (14.3% in the IDR vs. 17.1% in the TOE-SB, respectively) in the 2-year follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Both IDR and TOE-SB group provided comparable clinical results and retear rates for medium to massive posterosuperior rotator cuff tears. The surgical time and number of anchors used were less in the IDR group than in the TOE-SB group.

One double-loaded suture anchor is sufficient for all-inside arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair.

PURPOSE: All-inside anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) repair using anchors is frequently used to manage chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI) with satisfactory functional outcomes. It remains unclear whether there are differences in the functional results between the use of one or two double-loaded anchors. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 59 CLAI patients who underwent an all-inside arthroscopic ATFL repair procedure from 2017 to 2019. Patients were divided into two groups according to the number of anchors used. In the one-anchor group (n = 32), the ATFL was repaired with one double-loaded suture anchor. In the two-anchors group (n = 27), the ATFL was repaired with two double-loaded suture anchors. At the last follow-up time point, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores, American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, Karlsson Ankle Function Score (KAFS), Anterior Talar Translation (ATT), Active Joint Position Sense (AJPS), and the rate of return to sports in both groups were compared. RESULTS: All the patients were followed up for at least 24 months. Improvement in the functional results (VAS, AOFAS, KAFS, ATT, and AJPS) were recorded at the final follow-up time point. No significant differences were observed regarding VAS, AOFAS, KAFS, ATT, and AJPS between the two groups. CONCLUSION: In patients with CLAI undergoing all-inside arthroscopic ATFL repair, the use of either one or two double-loaded suture anchors produces comparable and predictably good functional outcomes. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

The lasso-loop technique is equivalent to the simple suture technique in arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament repair.

PURPOSE: To compare the clinical outcomes of the lasso-loop and simple suture techniques in arthroscopic anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) repair for the treatment of chronic lateral ankle instability (CLAI). METHODS: From 2018 to 2020, patients with CLAI who underwent arthroscopic ATFL repair using the lasso-loop or simple suture technique were matched 1:1 (arthroscopic lasso-loop [AL] group, n = 29; simple arthroscopic suture [AS] group, n = 29) based on age, sex, affected side, body mass index, and follow-up duration using propensity score matching and retrospectively evaluated. Karlsson score, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, Tegner score, anterior drawer test (ADT) results, complications, patient-reported satisfaction, and magnetic resonance (MR) re-evaluation findings of ATFL quality were used to describe the outcomes. RESULTS: The patient characteristics or follow-up durations did not significantly differ between the two groups. The Karlsson score, VAS score, and Tegner score improved significantly in both groups after a mean follow-up duration of 29.6 ± 2.8 months. The postoperative clinical scores, ADT results, satisfaction rates, complication rates and MR re-evaluation findings were not significantly different between the two groups at the latest follow-up. CONCLUSION: The lasso-loop technique was equivalent to the simple suture technique in arthroscopic ATFL repair for the treatment of CLAI after a minimum follow-up of 2 years, suggesting that the simple suture technique is sufficient for arthroscopic ATFL repair in most patients without the need to add a lasso loop. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Arthroscopic double-row bridge fixation provided satisfactory shoulder functional restoration with high union rate for acute anterior glenoid fracture.

PURPOSE: To introduce a novel surgical technique for arthroscopic reduction and double-row bridge fixation using trans-subscapularis tendon portal for anterior glenoid fracture and to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcomes. METHODS: A total of 22 patients who underwent arthroscopic reduction and double-row bridge fixation for an acute anterior glenoid fracture were retrospectively evaluated. Arthroscopic surgery was performed using four portals including a trans-subscapularis tendon portal. All patients underwent 3D-CT preoperatively and one day and one year postoperatively to evaluate the fracture fragment size, reduction status, and presence of fracture union. To evaluate the degree of fragment displacement, articular step-off and medial fracture gap were measured using 3D-CT. Clinical outcomes were assessed based on the ASES and Constant scores. Postoperative glenohumeral joint arthritis was evaluated using plain radiographs with the Samilson and Prieto classification. RESULTS: The average preoperative fracture fragment size was 25.9 ± 5.6%. Articular step-off (preoperative: 6.0 ± 3.3 mm, postoperative one day: 1.1 ± 1.6 mm, P < 0.001) and medial fracture gap (preoperative: 5.2 ± 2.6 mm, postoperative one day: 1.9 ± 2.3 mm, P < 0.001) were improved after surgery. On the postoperative one year 3D-CT, 20 patients achieved complete fracture union, and two patients showed partial union. Postoperative glenohumeral joint arthritis was observed in four patients. At the last visit, the ASES score was 91.8 ± 7.0 and the Constant score was 91.6 ± 7.0. CONCLUSION: Arthroscopic reduction and double-row bridge fixation using a trans-subscapularis tendon portal for acute anterior glenoid fracture achieved satisfactory clinical outcomes and anatomical reduction as demonstrated by a low degree of articular step-off and medial fracture gap. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV.

Osteolysis Following the Use of Polyetheretherketone Suture Anchors in Hand and Wrist Surgery: A Preliminary Study.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to investigate and describe the presence of osteolysis after implantation of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) suture anchors in the hand and wrist. METHODS: Patients who underwent hand or wrist surgery using PEEK suture anchor(s) at a large academic institution from January 2019 to January 2021 were identified. Patients without accessible intraoperative fluoroscopic imaging were excluded. Patient demographics, type of procedure, and suture anchor material were recorded. The suture anchor tunnel size was measured on sequential radiographs and recorded as percentage change. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize findings. RESULTS: A total of 26 PEEK suture anchors in 14 patients were included, with an average follow-up of 12.0 months (range, 1.5-24.1 months). Twenty-seven percent of the anchors (7/26) demonstrated osteolysis at final follow-up, as defined by enlargement of tunnel size by >30%. In all anchors, the tunnel size increased by 19.1% on average (range, -7.7% to 56.1%) by final follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Polyetheretherketone suture anchors may be associated with the development of osteolysis in hand and wrist surgery. The clinical implications of osteolysis in the smaller bones of the hand and wrist remain unclear. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic IV.

All-Suture Anchor Repair of the Flexor Digitorum Profundus Insertion: A Biomechanical Comparison of 2 Suturing Techniques.

PURPOSE: We compared 2 suturing techniques for reattachment of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) via all-suture anchor. METHODS: We used fresh, matched-pair, cadaveric hands. We disarticulated the fingers at the proximal interphalangeal joints, preserving the proximal FDP. We released the FDPs at their distal insertion and placed an all-suture, 1.0-mm anchor at the center of each FDP footprint. Each anchor's sutures were used to reattach each FDP using 1 of 2 techniques: group H (n = 14) via horizontal mattress; group H + K (n = 12) via horizontal mattress with knots thrown and, with each suture tail, 3 proximal, running-locking, Krackow-type passes on the radial and ulnar FDP sides with the suture ends tied together. We excluded 2 specimens from the H + K group because of improper anchor placement. All other fingers in both groups were individually mounted in an MTS machine for FDP loading in the following sequence for 500 cycles each: (1) to 15 N to simulate passive motion forces; (2) to 19 N for short-arc active motion forces; and (3) to 28 N for full active motion forces. Specimens that had not failed during cyclic testing were then loaded to failure. We measured FDP-to-bone gapping via a digital transducer. We defined failure as >3-mm gapping. RESULTS: The H + K group had significantly less gapping during cyclic loading up to 19 N and significantly higher load to failure. The H + K group failed exclusively at the anchor-bone level; the H group failed mostly by suture-tendon pullout. CONCLUSIONS: The H + K group performed significantly better regarding cyclic and load-to-failure testing after FDP reattachment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The H + K technique combines the benefits of horizontal-mattress tendon-to-bone apposition and Krackow-tendon locking. It converts the point of failure to the bone level rather than the suture-tendon level.

Mini All-Suture Anchors for Repairing the Central Slip of the Extensor Tendon at the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: A Biomechanical Investigation.

PURPOSE: This study evaluated 1.0-mm mini suture anchors for repairing the central slip of the extensor mechanism at the proximal interphalangeal joint. Studies have reported a requirement for central slip fixation to withstand 15 N during postoperative rehabilitation exercises and 59 N during forceful contraction. METHODS: Index and middle fingers from 10 matched pairs of cadaveric hands were prepared with 1.0-mm mini suture anchors with 2-0 sutures or threaded with 2-0 sutures through a bone tunnel (BTP). In total, 10 index fingers from unmatched hands were prepared with suture anchors and fixed to the extensor tendons to evaluate the tendon/suture interface response. Each distal phalanx was secured to a servohydraulic testing machine, and ramped tensile loads were applied to suture or tendon until failure. RESULTS: All anchors for the all-suture bone tests failed because of pullout from the bone (Mean failure force = 52.5+/-17.3 N). Three anchors from the tendon-suture pull out test failed by pullout from the bone and seven failed at the tendon/suture interface (Mean failure force = 49.0+/-10.1 N). CONCLUSIONS: The 1.0-mm mini suture anchor provides enough strength for early short-arc motion, but it may not be adequate for forceful contraction in the early postoperative rehabilitation stage. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The site of fixation, the type of anchor, and the type of suture used are key factors to consider for early range of motion, after surgery.

Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair Methods.

PURPOSE: Differences in range of motion, pinch strength, biomechanical strength, or joint angulation have previously been investigated for various means of treatment of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tears. We sought to address a gap in the literature by comparing thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint angle measurements and biomechanical strength before complete, acute UCL tear and after repair with suture anchors (SA), suture tape (ST) anchor augmentation, or reconstruction with palmaris longus graft (PL). METHODS: Thumbs and, if present, the PL tendon were harvested from 15 fresh-frozen cadavers. Each thumb specimen was secured into a servohydraulic biomechanical testing frame to evaluate native radiographic MCP joint angles at 0° flexion when loaded with 0, 5, and 13 N of radial force. Subsequently, a single hand surgeon (S.M.K.) performed complete transection and UCL repair via 1 of 3 methods: SA (n = 5), ST (n = 5), or reconstruction with PL (n = 5). Following repair, MCP joint angles were radiographically evaluated. Specimens that did not fail during joint angle testing were transferred to a separate testing frame for load-to-failure testing. Angle measurements and mean load-to-failure were compared between the groups, and angulation was also compared with each group's native control. RESULTS: Both ST and SA groups demonstrated comparable stiffness to their native controls, whereas the PL group was significantly more lax. The ST repair was significantly stiffer than the other constructs. ST also required higher forces to reach failure compared to both SA and PL. No difference was found between SA and PL groups. CONCLUSIONS: Although both ST and SA constructs recapitulate native joint stiffness, repair with ST demonstrated the greatest biomechanical strength in stiffness and load-to-failure. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: For complete, acute tears of the thumb UCL, ST may be superior for maintaining MCP joint stability and strength over SA and PL.