In vitro and in situ characterization of arthroscopic loop security and knot security of braided polyblend sutures: a biomechanical study.

We conducted a study to evaluate biomechanical performance during destructive testing of several different suture materials in various arthroscopic knot configurations under both in vitro and in situ conditions. Surgeons of different levels of experience tied the knots. Three different arthroscopic knots (static surgeon's, Weston, Tennessee slider) with 3 reverse half-hitches on alternating posts were tested using Fiberwire, ForceFiber, Orthocord, and Ultrabraid suture materials under both in vitro and in situ (blood plasma at 37°C) conditions.

Knot security, loop security, and elongation of braided polyblend sutures used for arthroscopic knots.

In the study described here, we evaluated load to failure and cyclic loading elongation of different braided polyblend sutures under different sliding knot configurations. Four braided polyblend sutures (FiberWire, Herculine, Orthocord, Ultrabraid) were tied with 5 sliding arthroscopic knots (Static surgeon, Weston, Roeder, Nicky, Tennessee slider) with a series of 3 reversing half-hitches on alternating posts (RHAPs). Each knot was tied around a 30-mm circumference post to ensure a consistent loop circumference.

Prospective evaluation of arthroscopic bankart repairs for anterior instability.

Background: Arthroscopic treatment has evolved to become the primary surgical option in the management of anterior shoulder instability as studies show comparable outcomes between open and arthroscopic techniques.

Objective: To evaluate prospectively the results of our institutional database for arthroscopic Bankart repairs at a minimum 2-year follow-up for patients with anterior instability treated with suture anchors.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.