The Hybrid Reversible Suture-Gripping Technique: A Modified Approach for Continuous Meniscal Suturing

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• The suture-gripping technique (SGT) offers advantages in suture manipulation during arthroscopic procedures.
• Continuous suturing methods provide biomechanical benefits for tissue repair.
• Current techniques may have limitations in flexibility and knot management for meniscal repairs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a modified hybrid reversible suture-gripping technique (SGT) for continuous meniscal suturing.
• To evaluate the feasibility of combining SGT with continuous suturing for meniscal repair.
• To present a versatile technique for addressing complex meniscal tears.

Main Methods:

• The hybrid reversible SGT was modified to allow bidirectional suture manipulation.
• This technique was applied using locking stitches (baseball stitch) for lateral meniscal repair.
• Each stitch was passed beneath the previous loop to create a locked, continuous suture.

Main Results:

• The hybrid reversible SGT facilitated continuous suturing with stable tension distribution.
• The technique allowed for precise needle insertion and flexible suture withdrawal.
• Meniscal repair was achieved with secure fixation and minimal knot bulk, requiring only two knots.

Conclusions:

• The hybrid reversible SGT is a practical and versatile technique for meniscal repair.
• It combines the benefits of SGT's precision with the biomechanical advantages of continuous suturing.
• This modified approach enhances efficiency and security in repairing meniscal tears, including complex cases.