A biomechanical analysis of meniscal repair techniques.
BACKGROUND
Various methods are available for repair of meniscal tears: a biodegradable meniscal implant without sutures (Biofix meniscus arrow), a suture anchor device (T-fix), and horizontal and vertical mattress sutures.


OBJECTIVE
There is no difference in repair strength or mode of failure among the techniques compared.


METHODS
Controlled laboratory study.


METHODS
Reproducible tears were created in bovine menisci and repaired with each of the techniques. Residual displacement of the tear immediately after repair and the resistance to displacement under load applied perpendicular to the tear were measured and compared.


RESULTS
The residual displacement after repair was highest in the Biofix arrow group (0.70 mm) and lowest in the vertical mattress suture group (0.21 mm). The ultimate strength of repair was strongest for the vertical sutures (202 +/- 7 N) and lowest for the arrow and T-fix (95.9 +/- 8 N and 99.4 +/- 8 N, respectively). The force required to generate 2 mm of tear displacement was greatest for the vertical sutures (143 N) and least for the arrow (43.6 N).


CONCLUSIONS
Suture techniques were stronger at all levels of testing.


CONCLUSIONS
Knowledge of biomechanical characteristics aids the surgeon in choosing the appropriate technique for each situation.
Baylor Sports Medicine Institute, Barnhart Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA.
Christopher C
CC
Rankin
David M
DM
Lintner
Philip C
PC
Noble
Vibor
V
Paravic
Erin
E
Greer
D000818:Animals; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002417:Cattle; D019544:Equipment Failure Analysis; D006614:Hindlimb; D011100:Polyglycolic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D013536:Suture Techniques; D000070600:Tibial Meniscus Injuries
D011100:Polyglycolic Acid