title: Peak load resistance of the JuggerKnot™ soft anchor technique compared with other common fixation techniques for large mallet finger fractures.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  To identify the strongest peak load resistance among four mallet finger fracture fixation methods (Kirschner wire, pull-out wire, tension-band wiring and the JuggerKnot™ (Biomet) soft anchor fixation).
  
  
  METHODS
  Fixation techniques were assigned among 24 specimens from six cadaveric human hands in a randomized block fashion. Peak load resistance was tested at 30°, 45° and 60° of flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The mean peak load of tension-band wiring was 67.8 N at 60° of flexion which was most superior. The JuggerKnot™ fixation had mean peak loads of 13.35 N (30°), 22.51 N (45°) and 32.96 N (60°). No complications of implant failure or fragmentation of the dorsal fragment was noted.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Tension-band wiring was the strongest fixation method but was most prominent on the skin surface as seen in three specimens. The JuggerKnot™ soft anchor fixation had similar peak load resistance as k-wire fixation and pull-out wiring.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Hong Kong Medical Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong.
authors.forename: Jason Pui Yin
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Cheung
authors.forename: Boris
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Fung
authors.forename: Wing Yuk
authors.initials: WY
authors.lastname: Ip
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D001864:Bone Wires; D002102:Cadaver; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000379:methods*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008422:Materials Testing / Q000379:methods*; D053441:Suture Anchors; D050277:Toe Phalanges / Q000293:injuries* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D016474:Weight-Bearing