Anchor Technique Research Articles

Suture Anchor Technique for Bridge Enhanced Anterior Cruciate Ligament Restoration

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in the athletic population. ACL repair with bridge enhancement is an emerging technology with promising clinical outcomes in patients with a proximal to midsubstance ACL tears. Currently, there are a variety of fixation methods described for isolated ACL repair, including suspensory and anchor techniques. This Technical Note describes a bridge enhanced ACL restoration procedure technique, using suture anchors for the femoral fixation. Advantages of this technique include more rigid fixation and avoiding need for accessory over-the-top incision. Additionally, the surgical workflow is more similar to an ACL reconstruction with intra-articular screw fixation, which may be more readily adopted by some surgeons.

Distal Biceps Repair Using an All-Suture Anchor Technique

Distal biceps ruptures are common injuries that lead to significant decrease in elbow supination strength and pain. This Technical Note describes a single-incision distal biceps tendon repair using 2 knotless suture anchors. This technique is easily reproducible, is efficient, and has the unique benefits of decreasing the risk of heterotopic ossification and damage to neurovascular structure while providing similar outcomes to other described fixation techniques.

Magnetic anchor technique assisted endoscopic submucosal dissection for early esophageal cancer.

Esophageal cancer has high incidence globally and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. With the widespread application of endoscopic technologies, the need for early detection and diagnosis of esophageal cancer has gradually been realized. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become the standard of care for managing early tumors of the esophagus, stomach, and colon. However, due to the steep learning curve, difficult operation, and technically demanding nature of the procedure, ESD has currently been committed to the development of various assistive technologies. To explore the feasibility and applicability of magnetic anchor technique (MAT)-assisted ESD for early esophageal cancer. Isolated pig esophagi were used as the experimental model, and the magnetic anchor device was designed by us. The esophagi used were divided into two groups, namely the operational and control groups, and 10 endoscopists completed the procedure. The two groups were evaluated for the following aspects: The total operative time, perforation rate, rate of whole mucosal resection, diameter of the peering mucosa, and scores of endoscopists' feelings with the procedure, including the convenience, mucosal surface exposure degree, and tissue tension. In addition, in the operational group, the soft tissue clip and the target magnet (TM) were connected by a thin wire through a small hole at the tail end of the TM. Under gastroscopic guidance, the soft tissue clip was clamped to the edge of the lesioned mucosa, which was marked in advance. By changing the position of the anchor magnet (AM) outside the esophagus, the pulling force and pulling direction of the TM could be changed, thus exposing the mucosal peeling surface and assisting the ESD. Herein, each of the two groups comprised 10 isolated esophageal putative mucosal lesions. The diameter of the peering mucosa did not significantly differ between the two groups (2.13 ± 0.06 vs 2.15 ± 0.06, P = 0.882). The total operative time was shorter in the operational group than in the control group (17.04 ± 0.22 min vs 21.94 ± 0.23 min, P < 0.001). During the entire experiment, the TM remained firmly connected with the soft tissue clip and did not affect the opening, closing, and release of the soft tissue clip. The interaction between the TM and AM could provide sufficient tissue tension and completely expose the mucosa, which greatly assists the surgeon with the operation. There was no avulsion of the mucosa, and mucosal lesions were intact when peeled. Therefore, the scores of endoscopists' feelings were higher in the operational group than in the control group in terms of the convenience (9.22 ± 0.19 vs 8.34 ± 0.15, P = 0.002), mucosal surface exposure degree (9.11 ± 0.15 vs 8.25 ± 0.12, P < 0.001), and tissue tension (9.35 ± 0.13 vs 8.02 ± 0.17, P < 0.001). The two groups did not significantly differ in the perforation rate and rate of whole mucosal resection. We found MAT-assisted ESD safe and feasible for early esophageal cancer. It could greatly improve the endoscopic operation experience and showed good clinical application prospects.

Similar Outcomes Are Found Between Quadriceps Tendon Repair With Transosseous Tunnels and Suture Anchors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and biomechanical performance of transosseous tunnels compared with suture anchors for quadriceps tendon repair. In accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a systematic search was performed in April 2021 in the following databases: Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, PubMed (1980-2021), MEDLINE (1980-2021), Embase (1980-2021), and CINAHL (1980-2021). Level I-IV studies were included if they provided outcome data for surgical repair of the quadriceps tendon using transosseous tunnels or suture anchors with minimum 1-year follow-up. Biomechanical studies comparing transosseous tunnels and suture anchors were separately analyzed. The systematic search yielded 1,837 citations, 23 of which met inclusion criteria (18 clinical, 5 biomechanical). In total, 13 studies reported results for transosseous repair and 7 studies reported results for repair with suture anchors. There were results for 508 patients from clinical studies. The average postoperative Lysholm score ranged from 88 to 92 for suture anchor repairs and 72.8 to 94 for transosseous repairs with range of motion ranging from 117° to 138° and 116° to 135°, respectively. Synthesis of the biomechanical data revealed the mean difference in load to failure was not significant between constructs (137.21; 95% confidence interval -10.14 to 284.57 N; P= .068). Transosseous and suture anchor techniques for quadriceps tendon repair result in similar biomechanical and postoperative outcomes. No difference between techniques in regard to ultimate load to failure among comparative biomechanical studies were observed. Level IV, systematic review level III-IV studies.

Highly Efficient and Stable Molecular-Based TiO2 Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting Achieved by Pyridyl Anchoring Technique

Highly Efficient and Stable Molecular-Based TiO₂ Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting Achieved by Pyridyl Anchoring Technique

Arthroscopic All-Suture Anchor Technique for Unstable Ramp Lesions with Medial Meniscal Defects

A ramp lesion is a specific type of tear in the meniscocapsular junction of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus, usually associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. Biomechanical cadaveric studies have shown that ACL injury combined with ramp lesions significantly increases anterior tibial translation and external rotation, which ACL reconstruction alone cannot completely control. Additionally, ramp lesions are sometimes associated with medial meniscal defects, especially in cases of chronic ACL deficiency after repetitive traumatic events, in which the anatomical repair of the meniscocapsular junction is infeasible. This report describes a new arthroscopic repair technique using an all-suture anchor through a posteromedial portal for unstable ramp lesions with medial meniscal defects.

Comparative Analysis of Helical Piles and Granular Anchor Piles for Foundation Stabilization in Expansive Soil: A 3D Numerical Study

This study investigates the performance of granular anchor piles and helical piles in expansive soils. Expansive soils pose challenges for engineering due to their significant swelling and shrinkage characteristics. Special considerations are required for constructing foundations on expansive soil to mitigate volumetric changes. While helical piles provide uplift resistance in light structures, they may not fully stabilize foundations in expansive soils. In contrast, granular anchor piles offer a simpler alternative for resisting uplift forces. A numerical study was conducted to analyze the pullout loads, compressive loads, and heave behavior of these anchor techniques. The results demonstrate that granular anchor piles outperform helical piles in terms of pullout and compressive performance, with improvements ranging from 17% to 22.5% in pullout capacity and 0.5% to 19% in compressive capacity, depending on specific pile lengths and diameters examined. However, both techniques show similar effectiveness in reducing heave, achieving reductions of over 90% when specific conditions are met. Additionally, the use of high-rise cap piles contributes to significant heave reduction, effectively minimizing heave to nearly negligible levels compared to low-rise cap piles. It is found that the relative density of the granular material has a more pronounced effect on the pullout load compared to the compressive load, and its impact varies depending on the length of the pile. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid high relative density when the pile is entirely within the expansive soil while utilizing higher relative density is beneficial when the pile penetrates and settles in the stable zone.

Large-balloon anchor technique for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in a patient with esophageal hiatal hernia.

Large-balloon anchor technique for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in a patient with esophageal hiatal hernia.

(408) THALIA Technique Fixation of the IPP Reservoir

Abstract Introduction Inflatable penile prosthesis reservoir herniation or migration may occur with space of Retzius or submuscular placement. The dangers of high submuscular placement include bowel or bladder perforation (from blind instrument passage) and or bowel herniation (from unintentional peritoneal placement and stretching of small opening with reservoir filling). Even under direct vision submuscular placement, reservoirs can ultimately reside into the scrotum, retroperitoneum, and lateral abdominal wall. The Tubing, Hitch And Lasso, Intussusception Anchor (THALIA) technique was recently developed to prevent reservoir migration with placement either submuscularly or in the space of Retzius, but video of this technique has not been previously published. Objective To visually demonstrate the proper surgical technique of THALIA during IPP reservoir placement. Methods An IPP surgical candidate at high risk of complications should reservoir migration occur was identified. Video of THALIA technique performed during IPP surgery was recorded using an in-light overhead camera and a GoPro aseptically positioned on the lead surgeon. Results Successful demonstration of THALIA technique during IPP placement. Conclusions THALIA technique is a feasible option to aid prevention of penile implant reservoir herniation. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Coloplast

BIOMECHANICAL STUDY COMPARING THE DOUBLE-LASSO LOOP TECHNIQUE TO INTERFERENCE SCREW FIXATION FOR BICEPS TENODESIS IN AN OVINE MODEL

This study aims to compare the biomechanical properties of the “Double Lasso-Loop” suture anchor (DLSA) technique with the commonly performed interference screw (IS) technique in an ex vivo ovine model.Fourteen fresh sheep shoulder specimens were used in this study. Dissection was performed leaving only the biceps muscle attached to the humerus and proximal radius before sharply incised to simulate long head of biceps tendon (LHBT) tear. Repair of the LHBT tear was performed on all specimens using either DSLA or IS technique. Cyclical loading of 500 cycles followed by load to failure was performed on all specimens. Tendon displacement due to the cyclical loading at every 100 cycles as well as the maximum load at failure were recorded and analysed. Stiffness was also calculated from the load displacement graph during load to failure testing.No statistically significant difference in tendon displacement was observed from 200 to 500 cycles. Statistically significant higher stiffness was observed in IS when compared with DSLA (P = .005). Similarly, IS demonstrated significantly higher ultimate failure load as compared with DSLA (P = .001). Modes of failure observed for DSLA was mostly due to suture failure (7/8) and anchor pull-out (1/8) while IS resulted in mostly LHBT (4/6) or biceps (2/6) tears. DSLA failure load were compared with previous studies and similar results were noted.After cyclical loading, tendon displacement in DLSA technique was not significantly different from IS technique. Despite the higher failure loads associated with IS techniques in the present study, absolute peak load characteristics of DLSA were similar to previous studies. Hence, DLSA technique can be considered as a suitable alternative to IS fixation for biceps tenodesis.

V11-07 THALIA TECHNIQUE FIXATION OF THE IPP RESERVOIR

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023V11-07 THALIA TECHNIQUE FIXATION OF THE IPP RESERVOIR Lexiaochuan Wen, Jayson Kemble, Eileen Byrne, Jonathan Warner, Sevann Helo, Matthew Ziegelmann, and Tobias Kohler Lexiaochuan WenLexiaochuan Wen More articles by this author , Jayson KembleJayson Kemble More articles by this author , Eileen ByrneEileen Byrne More articles by this author , Jonathan WarnerJonathan Warner More articles by this author , Sevann HeloSevann Helo More articles by this author , Matthew ZiegelmannMatthew Ziegelmann More articles by this author , and Tobias KohlerTobias Kohler More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003337.07AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Inflatable penile prosthesis reservoir herniation or migration may occur with space of Retzius or submuscular placement. The dangers of high submuscular placement include bowel or bladder perforation (from blind instrument passage) and or bowel herniation (from unintentional peritoneal placement and stretching of small opening with reservoir filling). Even under direct vision submuscular placement, reservoirs can ultimately reside into the scrotum, retroperitoneum, and lateral abdominal wall. The Tubing, Hitch And Lasso, Intussusception Anchor (THALIA) technique was recently developed to prevent reservoir migration with placement either submuscularly or in the space of Retzius, but video of this technique has not been previously published. The aim of this video is to demonstrate the proper surgical technique of THALIA during IPP reservoir placement. METHODS: An IPP surgical candidate at high risk of complications should reservoir migration occur was identified. Video of THALIA technique performed during IPP surgery was recorded using an in-light overhead camera and a GoPro aseptically positioned on the lead surgeon. RESULTS: Successful demonstration of THALIA technique during IPP placement. CONCLUSIONS: THALIA technique is a feasible option to aid prevention of penile implant reservoir herniation. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e1000 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Lexiaochuan Wen More articles by this author Jayson Kemble More articles by this author Eileen Byrne More articles by this author Jonathan Warner More articles by this author Sevann Helo More articles by this author Matthew Ziegelmann More articles by this author Tobias Kohler More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Magnetic anchor technique assisted laparoscopic cholecystectomy in swine

Magnetic anchor device based on the principle of magnet heteropolar attraction can assist laparoscopic surgery and reduce abdominal wall trauma. This study explored the feasibility of use of our self-designed magnetic anchor device for reduced-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) through animal experiments. Twelve experimental pigs (15–20 kg) were randomly divided into study group (magnetic anchor technique assisted 2-port LC, n = 6) and control group (conventional 3-port LC, n = 6). Operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and postoperative complications were compared between the two groups. LC was successfully performed in all 12 pigs. There was no significant between-group difference with respect to operative time (study group: 35.83 ± 5.12 min; control group: 34.50 ± 5.13 min, P = 0.662) or intraoperative blood loss (< 50 mL per animal in both groups). In the experimental group, there was no malfunction of the magnetic anchoring device, the use process was smooth, and the tissue traction and surgical field exposure were satisfactory. There were no perioperative complications such as bile duct injury, bile leakage, or bleeding in both groups. We demonstrated the feasibility of use of the self-designed magnetic anchor device in reduced-port LC. The device has important clinical application value.

Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Using a Single Incision, Dual Anchor Technique

Background: Distal biceps tendon ruptures commonly present in the middle-aged population resulting in deficits of strength and endurance. Operative management has shown improved functional outcome; however, there is not a clear consensus on an ideal surgical method. Indications: Distal biceps tendon repair is indicated for patients with clinical evidence and supporting magnetic resonance imaging confirmation of complete or partial rupture of the biceps tendon. Ideally, surgery is performed within 1 to 2 weeks of the injury to minimize the amount of scar tissue that is formed and the severity of the tendon retraction. Technique Description: A single incision is created on the volar surface of the forearm approximately 15 mm distal to the main flexor crease. After dissection to and retrieval of the biceps tendon, a #2 FiberTag stitch is placed distally and secured in a standard looped, locking fashion. An anchor is then placed in the most proximal aspect of the radial tuberosity and preliminarily placed around the tendon. An all-suture intramedullary cortical button is then placed in the distal aspect of the radial tuberosity. The FiberTag sutures are then shuttled through the button and tightened to anatomically reduce the distal biceps. The sutures on the proximal anchor are then used as supplemental fixation. Results: An anterior, single incision technique provides exposure necessary for dual anchor fixation and anatomic restoration of the distal biceps tendon. Utilizing this approach, patients are found to have improved flexion and pronation at 1 year, lower rates of heterotopic ossification, and lower rates of reoperation. Conclusion: Distal biceps tendon repair through an anterior, single incision provides excellent exposure for surgical repair. Utilizing a dual anchor technique, the distal button allows for anatomic fixation while the proximal suture anchor provides secondary fixation and increases the bone-tendon interface. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

A suture anchor-based repair technique for type IV jersey finger injuries: a biomechanical investigation

The aim of this biomechanical investigation was to evaluate a repair technique for type IV FDP tendon avulsions using a suture anchor, addressing the bony and the tendinous aspect of this injury simultaneously. In 45 distal phalanges from human anatomical specimens the injury was simulated and repairs were performed with a suture anchor using an innovative technique, interosseous sutures and a combination of screws and an interosseous suture. Repetitive loading for 500 cycles simulated postoperative mobilization. Repairs were loaded to failure thereafter. Elongation of the tendon-suture complex, gap formation at the bone-bone contact line and at the bone-tendon insertion line, load at first noteworthy displacement (2 mm), load at failure and the mechanism of failure were assessed. The suture anchor technique was superior biomechanically considering load at failure (mean: 72.8 N), bony gap formation (mean: 0.1 mm) as well as tendinous gap formation (mean: 0.7 mm), implying a preferable stability of the repair. Overall, this study demonstrates good ex vivo mechanical stability for a proposed suture anchor repair technique for type IV FDP tendon avulsion injuries, which might enable early postoperative mobilization in patients. The technique's subcutaneous implant placement and low implant load are expected to reduce potential complications observed in other commonly used repair techniques. This approach warrants further evaluation in vivo.

Suture-Staple Fixation of Os Acetabuli: Description of a Novel Fixation Technique Using Linked Knotless Suture Anchors

Background: An os acetabuli is a bone fragment of the acetabular rim. Several stabilization techniques have been described in the literature including the use of canulated headless compression screws, sutures placed over screws, and knotted suture anchors; however, the use of screws near the joint could either lead to irritation or increased joint surface wear if placed improperly. Indications: Fixation of an os acetabuli is indicated when removal of the os would result in under-coverage of the femoral head which would in turn lead to a rapid onset of arthritis. Technique Description: This novel technique for os acetabuli fixation uses knotless suture anchors to create a “suture-staple” construct. Following the debridement of fibrous tissue and labral repair, reduction of the acetabular os is accomplished and confirmed on intraoperative fluoroscopy. Knottless FiberTak™ Suture Anchors are placed in the anterior and the posterior aspects of the os, and the anchor suture of one anchor is passed through the pass suture of the second anchor to create a “suture-staple” configuration. Results: Maintenance of reduction and pain-free motion of the hip was confirmed at 3-month clinic follow-up. The x-rays obtained at this time revealed no evidence of arthritis and appropriate coverage of the hip joint. Discussion/Conclusion: Outcomes of other methods of os fixation are largely lacking; however, outcomes using a knotted suture anchor technique in 3 patients with 1-year follow-up seem to indicate fully healed os fragments in all patients with improvement in patient-reported outcomes scores. Longer-term follow-up will be needed to ensure this similar technique produces similar outcomes. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Experimental research on the performance of a Novel Geo-filament anchor for an Earthen architectural site

At present, most studies of anchorage techniques for earthen architecture ruins are conducted so as to improve the anchor force, however, the damage caused to the ruins by anchor reinforcement has not been fully considered in practice and no special anchor technique has been applied to reinforce the small sliding mass. This paper summarizes the application and R&D of anchor rod techniques as applied to the protection of the Gaochang Ruins, Turpan, in China. Based on the reinforcement of the small sliding mass of the earthen historical ramparts, a new type of Geotechnical Filament Anchor (GFA) is designed. By changing six parameters, including anchorage length (L), GF thickness (H), bore diameter (D), slurry strength (S), GFA surface state (R) and inclination Angle (A), the tensile strength, failure mode, load displacement (P-S) relationship and strain (ζ-L) distribution characteristics are studied, and corresponding analysis is performed on the test data and phenomena. (1) A formula for the design value of the anchorage force N is presented. (2) Combining the data on the strain distribution at the GF-slurry interface under the action of N, the shear stress distribution model of the anchorage system is obtained. (3) Taking into account the soil mechanical properties of the above-mentioned ruins, the shear stress diffusion coefficient (α) is conceptualized, the formula for the shear strength of the grouting material is obtained, and the allowable ranges of L, D, H, R, and S determined. A new design is proposed for the application of anchorage techniques to earthen ruins in the context of protection of cultural relics, which promotes the design and calculation method described in this paper.

A State-of-the-Art Review and Numerical Study of Reinforced Expansive Soil with Granular Anchor Piles and Helical Piles

Expansive soils exist in many countries worldwide, and their characteristics make them exceedingly difficult to engineer. Due to its significant swelling and shrinkage characteristics, expansive soil defies many of the stabilization solutions available to engineers. Differential heave or settlement occurs when expansive soil swells or shrinks, causing severe damage to foundations, buildings, roadways, and retaining structures. In such soils, it is necessary to construct a foundation that avoids the adverse effects of settlement. As a result, building the structure’s foundations on expansive soil necessitates special consideration. Helical piles provide resistance to uplift in light structures. However, they may not fully stabilize foundations in expansive soils. A granular anchor pile is another anchor technique that may provide the necessary resistance to uplift in expansive soils using simpler methods. This review and numerical study investigate the fundamental foundation treatments for expansive soils and the behavior of granular anchors and helical piles. Results indicate that granular anchor piles performed better than helical piles for uplift and settlement performance. For heave performance, the granular anchor and helical piles perform nearly identically. Both achieve heave reductions greater than 90% when L/H &gt; 1.5 and D = 0.6 m.

Prediction of common hepatic artery catheter insertion based on celiac trunk morphology

This study aimed to predict the ability to insert a 4-5 French (Fr) catheter insertion with a guidewire into the common hepatic artery (CHA) based on celiac trunk morphology. This retrospective study included 64 patients who underwent balloon-occluded transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (n = 56), transcatheter arterial chemotherapy (n = 2), or were fitted with an implantable port system (n = 6) between June 2019 and December 2019 in our institution. The morphology of the celiac trunk was classified into three types (upward, horizontal, and downward) based on celiac angiography. The aortic-celiac trunk angle was measured on sagittal images of preprocedural contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT). We reviewed whether a 4-5-Fr shepherd's hook catheter could advance beyond the CHA using a 0.035-inch guidewire (Radifocus® Guidewire M; Terumo). Three patients were diagnosed with median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) based on the characteristic hook shape of the celiac artery on sagittal images of contrast-enhanced CT. The predictive ability of celiac angiography and preprocedural CT for CHA insertion success was evaluated. In unsuccessful cases, the balloon anchor technique (BAT) was attempted as follows: (1) a 2.7/2.8-Fr microballoon catheter (Attendant Delta; Terumo) was placed beyond the proper hepatic artery, and (2) the balloon was inflated as an anchor for parent catheter advancement. Upward, horizontal, and downward celiac trunk types were noted in 42, 9, and 13 patients, respectively. The median CT angle was 122.83° (first quartile-third quartile, 102.88°-136.55°). Insertion in the CHA using the guidewire was successful in 56 of 64 patients (87.50%), and the success rate in the downward type was significantly lower than that in the upward type [42/42 (100%) vs. 7/13 (53.85%), P < 0.001]. The CT angle was significantly larger downward in the unsuccessful group than in the successful group (121.03° vs. 140.70°, P = 0.043). Celiac angiography had a significantly higher area under the curve (AUC) than preprocedural CT (AUC = 0.91 vs. AUC = 0.72, P = 0.040). All three cases of MALS showed unsuccessful CHA insertion. In all eight patients with unsuccessful insertion, the catheter could be advanced using the BAT [8/8 (100%)]. Celiac angiography and preprocedural CT could predict CHA catheter insertion using a guidewire, and celiac angiography had high predictability. CT could detect MALS, a risk factor for unsuccessful CHA insertion.

Retracted: Clinical Effect of Suture Anchor and Double-Pulley Technique in the Treatment of Inferior Patellar Fracture.

[This retracts the article DOI: 10.1155/2021/4964195.].

A randomized controlled trial to compare clinical and cost-effectiveness of suture fixation versus tension band wiring for simple olecranon fracture fixation in adults: The Simple Olecranon Fracture Fixation Trial (SOFFT) protocol.

Olecranon fractures are usually caused by falling directly on to the olecranon or following a fall on to an outstretched arm. Displaced fractures of the olecranon with a stable ulnohumeral joint are commonly managed by open reduction and internal fixation. The current predominant method of management of simple displaced fractures with ulnohumeral stability (Mayo grade IIA) in the UK and internationally is a low-cost technique using tension band wiring. Suture or suture anchor techniques have been described with the aim of reducing the hardware related complications and reoperation. An all-suture technique has been developed to fix the fracture using strong synthetic sutures alone. The aim of this trial is to investigate the clinical and cost-effectiveness of tension suture repair versus traditional tension band wiring for the surgical fixation of Mayo grade IIA fractures of the olecranon. SOFFT is a multicentre, pragmatic, two-arm parallel-group, non-inferiority, randomized controlled trial. Participants will be assigned 1:1 to receive either tension suture fixation or tension band wiring. 280 adult participants will be recruited. The primary outcome will be the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score at four months post-randomization. Secondary outcome measures include DASH (at 12, 18, and 24 months), pain, Net Promotor Score (patient satisfaction), EuroQol five-dimension five-level score (EQ-5D-5L), radiological union, complications, elbow range of motion, and re-operations related to the injury or to remove metalwork. An economic evaluation will assess the cost-effectiveness of treatments. There is currently no high-quality evidence comparing the clinical and cost effectiveness of the tension suture repair to the traditional tension band wiring currently offered for the internal fixation of displaced fractures of the olecranon. The Simple Olecranon Fracture Fixation Trial (SOFFT) is a randomized controlled trial with sufficient power and design rigour to provide this evidence for the subtype of Mayo grade IIA fractures.Cite this article: Bone Jt Open2023;4(1):27-37.