Tendon transfer fixation: comparing a tendon to tendon technique vs. bioabsorbable interference-fit screw fixation.
Tendon transfer techniques in the foot and ankle are used for tendon ruptures, deformities, and instabilities. This fresh cadaver study compares the tendon fixation strength in 10 paired specimens by performing a tendon to tendon fixation technique or using 7 x 20-25 mm bioabsorbable interference-fit screw tendon fixation technique. Load at failure of the tendon to tendon fixation method averaged 279N (Standard Deviation 81N) and the bioabsorbable screw 148N (Standard Deviation 72N) [p = 0.0008]. Bioabsorbable interference-fit screws in these specimens show decreased fixation strength relative to the traditional fixation technique. However, the mean bioabsorbable screw fixation strength of 148N provides physiologic strength at the tendon-bone interface.
Sabonghy
Eric Peter
EP
Department of Orthopedics, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA. psabonghy@hotmail.com
Wood
Robert Michael
RM
Ambrose
Catherine Glauber
CG
McGarvey
William Christopher
WC
Clanton
Thomas Oscar
TO
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000842:Ankle; D001863:Bone Screws; D002102:Cadaver; D005528:Foot; D006801:Humans; D013709:Tendon Transfer / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D013710:Tendons / Q000601:surgery*; D017211:Treatment Failure; D016474:Weight-Bearing