Arthroscopic transosseous rotator cuff repair: the eight-shape technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Arthroscopy
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Current all-arthroscopic anchorless transosseous suture techniques are complex and time-consuming.
• Existing methods present challenges in reproducibility and increase surgical duration.
• A need exists for a simpler, more efficient arthroscopic transosseous repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel, simplified all-arthroscopic anchorless transosseous suture technique.
• To demonstrate the ease of performance and reproducibility of this new method.
• To report preliminary outcomes of this innovative surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel all-arthroscopic anchorless transosseous suture technique.
• Utilizes a dedicated instrument for safe and easy preparation of transosseous tunnels.
• Employs a single suture tape for medial and lateral fixation, maximizing tendon-footprint contact.
• Procedure detailed for reproducibility.

Main Results:

• The novel technique is easy to perform and reproducible.
• Achieves both medial and lateral fixation without external devices.
• Minimizes risk of suture twist by using only one suture tape.
• Preliminary favorable results observed after a minimum 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions:

• The developed all-arthroscopic anchorless transosseous suture technique offers a simplified and reproducible alternative.
• This method enhances tendon-footprint contact and fixation without implants.
• Preliminary outcomes suggest this technique is effective for shoulder repair.