Effect of Suture Caliber and Number of Core Strands on Repair of Acute Achilles Ruptures: A Biomechanical Study.

Background: Controversy exists regarding the ideal Achilles rupture treatment; however, operative treatment is considered for athletes and active patients. The ideal repair construct is evolving, and the effect of suture caliber or number of core strands has not been studied.

Methods: Simulated mid-substance Achilles ruptures were performed in 24 cadavers.

3D Model Analysis of Ankle Flexion on Anatomic Reduction of a Syndesmotic Injury.

Background: The effect of ankle positioning during suture-button fixation for syndesmosis repair on range of motion (ROM) and anatomic reduction has yet to be investigated. The purpose of this cadaveric study was to compare the effects of 3 different ankle positions during suture-button repair on volumetric reduction of the syndesmosis, fibular displacement, and ROM of the ankle using 3-dimensional computed tomography (CT) analysis. The null hypothesis was that ankle position during fixation would not affect syndesmotic volume restoration, fibular displacement, or ROM.

A 3-D CT Analysis of Screw and Suture-Button Fixation of the Syndesmosis.

Background: Historically, syndesmosis injuries have been repaired with screw fixation; however, some suggest that suture-button constructs may provide a more accurate anatomic and physiologic reduction. The purpose of this study was to compare changes in the volume of the syndesmotic space following screw or suture-button fixation using a preinjury and postoperative 3-D computed tomography (CT) model. The null hypothesis was that no difference would be observed among repair techniques.

Biomechanical Analysis of the Individual Ligament Contributions to Syndesmotic Stability.

Background: Biomechanical data and contributions to ankle joint stability have been previously reported for the individual distal tibiofibular ligaments. These results have not yet been validated based on recent anatomic descriptions or using current biomechanical testing devices.

Methods: Eight matched-pair, lower leg specimens were tested using a dynamic, biaxial testing machine.

Biomechanical Comparison of 3 Current Ankle Syndesmosis Repair Techniques.

Background: Significant debate exists regarding optimal repair for unstable syndesmosis injuries. Techniques range from screw fixation, suture-button fixation, or a combination of the two. In this study, 3 common repairs were compared using a simulated weightbearing protocol with internal and external rotation of the foot.