A biomechanical analysis of two biceps tenodesis fixation techniques

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Biomedical engineering
• Musculoskeletal research

Background:

• Biceps tenodesis is a common surgical procedure.
• Fixation technique is crucial for successful outcomes.
• Comparing interference screw and suture anchor methods is important.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the biomechanical properties and load-to-failure of interference screw versus double suture anchor fixation for biceps tenodesis.

Main Methods:

• A biomechanical study using 11 fresh-frozen human cadaveric specimens.
• Biceps tenodesis performed with either interference screw (n=5) or double suture anchor (n=6) fixation.
• Constructs were loaded to failure using a materials test system.

Main Results:

• The interference screw group demonstrated significantly greater pullout strength (233.5 N) compared to the suture anchor group (135.5 N).
• Failure in the suture anchor group consistently occurred at the anchor or eyelet.
• The interference screw group exhibited a P value of .007, indicating statistical significance.

Conclusions:

• Interference screw fixation provides superior biomechanical strength for biceps tenodesis over double suture anchor fixation.
• Higher initial fixation strength with interference screws may mitigate early repair failure.
• Surgeons may consider interference screws for patients requiring early active elbow flexion.