A Modified Suture Hook Technique for Lateral Meniscus Tears: Chinese Union Suture Procedure (CUSP)

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Arthroscopy

Background:

• Lateral meniscus tears, particularly in the body and posterior horn, are common sports injuries.
• Arthroscopic treatment is often necessary for severe tears but faces challenges due to limited space in the posterolateral knee compartment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel suture technique, the Chinese Union Suture Procedure, for treating lateral meniscus posterior horn/body injuries.
• To improve surgical convenience and outcomes for arthroscopic meniscus repair.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Chinese Union Suture Procedure utilizing a posteromedial-transseptal portal for enhanced surgical angles.
• Implementation of a continuous, sewing machine-like suturing technique for increased speed and flexibility.
• Introduction of a novel retractor for auxiliary portal establishment.

Main Results:

• The technique facilitates vertical mattress suturing for meniscus tears.
• Allows for knot tying on the tibial surface of the meniscus, overcoming limitations of traditional all-inside techniques.
• Demonstrates improved flexibility, speed, and cost-effectiveness in simulated surgical scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The Chinese Union Suture Procedure provides a valuable advancement for arthroscopic repair of lateral meniscus posterior horn/body tears.
• The technique enhances surgical access and efficiency, offering a practical solution for challenging knee joint anatomy.
• This method combines flexibility, speed, and cost-effectiveness for improved clinical application in meniscus surgery.