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Suture anchor failure strength--an in vivo study
F A Barber1, P Cawley, J F Prudich
1Plano Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center, Texas.
Summary
This study compared four suture anchors, finding that absorbable anchors initially had lower strength but reached comparable fixation levels over time. Non-absorbable anchors provided consistent initial strength for rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilization.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
- Biomechanical engineering
Background:
- Suture anchors are crucial for attaching soft tissues to bone.
- Common applications include rotator cuff repair and shoulder stabilization.
- Evaluating in vivo performance of different anchor types is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the in vivo characteristics of four suture anchors.
- To compare the failure strength and failure modes of absorbable and non-absorbable anchors over time.
- To evaluate the suitability of these anchors for orthopedic procedures.
Main Methods:
- Four suture anchors (Mitek G2, Zimmer Statak, Acufex TAG wedge, Arthrex ESP) were implanted in ram femurs.
- Bone-anchor-suture systems were harvested at various intervals.
- Mechanical testing was performed to determine failure strength and mode.
Main Results:
- Mitek G2 and Statak anchors showed consistent failure at 30 lbs by suture breakage.
- The TAG wedge exhibited initial pull-out issues and increased strength over 4 weeks.
- The absorbable ESP anchor had initial lower strength (17 lbs at 2 weeks) but reached 30 lbs by 6 weeks, with some implantation breakage.
Conclusions:
- Non-absorbable anchors (Mitek G2, Statak) offer immediate high fixation strength.
- The absorbable ESP anchor demonstrates delayed but comparable fixation strength.
- Anchor choice depends on balancing initial stability needs with potential benefits of absorbable materials.