Novel ultrasound assisted suture anchor system using the BoneWelding® technology yields a comparable primary stability in osteopenic and healthy human humeri as a benchmark anchor

Abstract

Introduction
The aim of this biomechanical study was to evaluate the primary stability of the SportWelding® Sombrero 3.6 mm suture anchor system in osteopenic and healthy cadaveric humeri.
Methods
The Sombrero® and BioCorkscrew® anchors were deployed in 8 osteopenic and 4 healthy cadaver humeri after the bone mineral density (BMD) measurements of the 32 specimens. Both anchors were loaded with a USP Nr. 2 FiberWire® suture. An established cyclic testing protocol was performed. The maximum failure load (Fmax), the system displacement and the modes of failure were recorded.
Results
The Fmax and system displacement of the Sombrero® in osteopenic and healthy humeri was equivalent to the Bio-Corkscrew® benchmark anchor; there were no significant differences in the maximum failure loads and system displacement values. Only anchor and suture dislocations were observed; suture ruptures did not occur.
Conclusion
This study shows that the Sombrero® yields similar maximum failure loads and system displacement values as the established Bio-Corkscrew® benchmark anchor. The primary stability of the Sombrero® and Bio-Corkscrew® seems to be independent of the bone mineral quality. This relatively small-sized polymer anchor is independent of the BMD and may be an alternative to established suture anchors in rotator cuff repair.
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Keywords

• Biomechanics
• Ultrasound
• Suture anchor
• Rotator cuff
• Osteoporosis
• Bone welding
• Bone density