Two Cases of Biodegradable Suture Anchor Displacement Diagnosed with Ultrasonography following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Abstract

With the advancement of shoulder arthroscopy, use of biodegradable suture anchors in the surgical repair of rotator cuff tears has increased. Because of the radiolucency of these anchors, radiography is not appropriate for early detection of anchor failure. Ultrasonography is an advantageous modality in visualizing biodegradable, radiolucent anchors on a real-time basis without risk of radiation exposure. We report on two cases of displacement of a biodegradable suture anchor diagnosed on ultrasonography during the postoperative follow-up, which has not been previously reported. Because this displacement could be missed in the postoperative follow up ultrasonography, we describe the ultrasonographic features of the displaced biodegradable anchors. Surgeons and radiologists should pay special attention to the possibility of displacement of the suture anchor in patients who underwent rotator cuff repairs using suture anchors.