A Case Series of Repair Using a Cost-effective Suture Anchor for Upper Limb Surgeries

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The purpose of this study is to focus on various cases which were operated using an affordable suture anchor for soft-tissue bone repairs of upper limb surgeries in our series of patients. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients with minimum 1-year follow-up after various upper limb surgeries using modified suture anchor were assessed both clinically and radiographically. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to assess the intensity of pain. We used the disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) to assess the functional outcome. Results: VAS score improved from 5.39 ± 1.85 at 1-month postoperative period to 0.45 ± 0.51 at 12 months (P < 0.05). DASH score improved from 47 ± 18.99 at 1-month postoperative period to 8.89 ± 4.98 at 12 months (P < 0.05). There was no incidence of breakage of suture material or loosening of the implant seen during the insertion. There were no complications related to the implant noted. Conclusion: Clinical failures did not occur in this group of 18 patients undergoing repair using modified suture anchor. Following soft tissue-to-bone fixation, patients showed excellent short-term clinical and radiographic outcomes. This innovative method is quick, simple, inexpensive, repeatable, and saves time by transforming a basic screw and suture material into an effective suture anchor.