Computed Tomographic Analysis of Arthroscopic Labral Repair Using Absorbable Knotless Suture Anchors

Abstract

Background We investigated the reconstitution of the glenoid bone after degradation of absorbable knotless suture anchors used for labral repair. Methods Arthroscopic labral repairs performed on 59 shoulders in 55 patients by a single surgeon using knotless poly-L-lactic acid suture anchors were reviewed at a mean of 46.5 months. Computed tomographic scans of the operated shoulder were reviewed by two independent radiologists for the number of drill holes present, as well as the amount of bony reconstitution and the presence of osteoarthritis. Results One hundred and ninety anchors were placed and both radiologists counted 185 drill holes (97%). Agreement between the radiologists was high (kappa = 0.96). The majority of holes had partial bony ingrowth (69% to 71%) and osteolysis was infrequent (6%). The prevalence of degenerative joint disease was 7% to 8%. Conclusions Biodegradable suture anchors are a viable option for labral fixation during arthroscopic shoulder stabilization but, in most cases, the drillholes are not fully replaced with bone and may enlarge, although the effect on clinical outcome is uncertain.