The biodegradable spacer as a novel treatment modality for massive rotator cuff tears: a prospective study with 5-year follow-up.

Background: The management of massive, irreparable rotator cuff tears (RCT) is challenging and associated with high failure rates. There are no current consensus or definitive guidelines concerning the optimal surgical treatment for this devastating condition. This study was designed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of the biodegradable inflatable InSpace™ system in patients with massive reparable or irreparable RCTs.

Bioabsorbable sutures versus screw fixation of displaced tibial eminence fractures: a biomechanical study.

Background: In 1995, we developed a simple and safe arthroscopic technique of anterograde stable fixation of the displaced tibial eminence fractures using a cannulated screw and washer, allowing immediate mobilisation and weight bearing. Some authors described similar end results by arthroscopic fixation of this abruption with trans-osseous sutures. We proved with the biomechanical study that the fixation with strong trans-osseous sutures provides a comparable stable fixation the same as the cannulated screw and washer.

Prospective clinical study of a novel biodegradable sub-acromial spacer in treatment of massive irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Purpose: The purposes of this prospective non-randomized study were to confirm the feasibility of the biodegradable sub-acromial spacer (InSpace™) implantation in patients with massive irreparable rotator cuff tear and to determine the safety profile and functional results 3 years post-implantation.

Methods: Twenty patients were implanted with the InSpace™ device and assessed up to 3 years of post-implantation. Improvement in shoulder function was assessed using Constant score, while ease of use of the system was recorded by surgeons as were device-related adverse events.

Anterograde arthroscopic fixation of avulsion fractures of the tibial eminence with a cannulated screw: five-year results.

Purpose: Fractures of the tibial eminence can be treated arthroscopically. Fixation of the fracture is usually followed by temporary immobilization. The literature suggests that only anterograde fixation with cannulated screws and washer is considered stable enough to allow for immediate mobilization and weight bearing.