A subcutaneous arthroscopic portal closure technique without thread exposure.

Abstract

We present a simple new suture technique for an arthroscopic portal that enables a secured subcutaneous suture without thread exposure. A curved suture needle is inserted through the skin at approximately 1cm from the wound edge. The needle penetrates the subcutaneous tissue and exits through the skin on the opposite side of the wound edge. The needle and suture are pulled from just underneath the skin layer. The thread is collected within the wound, and the other end of the thread is pulled from the wound. The needle is inserted at just beneath the skin layer, penetrates the subcutaneous tissue, and pierces the opposite side of the skin. The needle is retrieved along with the thread at approximately 1cm from the other side of the wound edge. After removing the needle from the thread, the thread passing in the wound is located and the needle side of the thread is retrieved from the wound. The ends of the thread are tied under the appropriate tension. From our findings, we recommend this method for suturing of all arthroscopic portals, as well as other small incisions that need water-tight suture.