Biomechanical Comparison of Coracoclavicular Fixation Using Metallic Versus All-Suture Anchors

Chih Kai Hong, Fa Chuan Kuan, Kai Lan Hsu, Yueh Chen, Chen Hao Chiang, Wei Ren Su

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background: A coracoclavicular (CC) fixation technique using an all-suture anchor with the assistance of fluoroscopy can prevent iatrogenic anterior deltoid detachment from the clavicle; however, soft anchor pullout has been reported as a complication. Purpose: To compare the biomechanical properties of conventional metallic and all-suture anchors for CC suture fixation. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A total of 24 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens were divided into 2 groups: metal anchor group (group M) and all-suture anchor group (group A). In group M, 5.0-mm metallic suture anchors were used for CC fixation, whereas 2.8-mm all-suture anchors were used in group A. The prepared specimens were mounted on a materials testing machine. After preconditioning at 0 to 20 N for 10 cycles, the specimens were subjected to cyclic loading from 20 to 70 N for 1000 cycles. Finally, all the specimens were loaded to failure. Cyclic elongation, linear stiffness, ultimate load, and failure modes were recorded, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare nonparametric parameters between the 2 groups. Results: All of the specimens completed the cyclic loading test. The elongation after cyclic loading in group M (1.6 ± 0.6 mm) was significantly smaller compared with that in group A (2.5 ± 1.2 mm) (P =.02). No between-group differences were found in linear stiffness (42 ± 17 N/mm in group M and 41 ± 17 N/mm in group A). The ultimate failure load in group M (263 ± 66 N) was significantly greater than that in group A (177 ± 76 N) (P =.02). All specimens failed because of suture anchor pullout. Conclusion: The use of all-suture anchors in CC fixation resulted in significantly greater cyclic displacement and smaller ultimate failure load than that of metallic anchors. Clinical Relevance: Understanding the most biomechanically sound suture anchor may assist in lowering the risk of clinical failure in CC fixation and repair.

Original languageEnglish
JournalOrthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine
Volume12
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024 Jan

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

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