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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
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Using Q Suture to Enhance Resistance to Gap Formation and Tensile Strength of Repaired Flexor Tendons
Published on: June 3, 2020
Utilizing a simulated tendon to teach tendon repair technique.
J M Ingraham1, R A Weber, R A Weber
1Scott & White Memorial Hospital/Texas A&M Health Science Center College of Medicine, Temple, TX 76508, USA. jingraham@swmail.sw.org
Hand (New York, N.Y.)
|March 26, 2009
Summary
This study shows that a low-cost simulation model effectively trains surgical residents in flexor tendon repair. Residents significantly improved their repair skills and speed using the simulation, demonstrating its value in surgical education.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Surgical Simulation
- Medical Education
Background:
- Tendon repair is a critical surgical skill.
- Effective training methods for surgical residents are essential.
- Simulation models offer a safe and repeatable learning environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of a novel simulation model for teaching core tendon repairs.
- To evaluate the transfer of skills learned in simulation to a cadaveric model.
Main Methods:
- Ten surgical residents with no prior flexor tendon repair experience were trained.
- Training involved performing repairs on a synthetic tendon simulation model.
- Performance was assessed using a global rating scale and timed repairs; cadaver trials were also conducted.
Main Results:
- Residents showed significant improvement in repair quality scores from 2.4/5.0 to 4.8/5.0 over ten simulation trials.
- Repair completion time decreased significantly from a mean of 5.4 to 3.0 minutes.
- Residents trained on the simulation model performed significantly better on cadaveric tendon repairs compared to untrained residents.
Conclusions:
- The inexpensive simulation model provides a high-fidelity training experience for tendon repair.
- This simulation model is a valuable tool for training surgical residents in tendon repair techniques.
- Simulation-based training enhances surgical skill acquisition and performance in a cadaveric setting.
