The Optimum Tension for Bridging Sutures in Transosseous-Equivalent Rotator Cuff Repair A Cadaveric Biomechanical Study

Background:Transosseous-equivalent (TOE) rotator cuff repair can increase contact area and contact pressure between the repaired cuff tendon and bony footprint and can show higher ultimate loads to failure and smaller gap formation compared with other repair techniques. However, it has been suggested that medial rotator cuff failure after TOE repair may result from increased bridging suture tension.Purpose:To determine optimum bridging suture tension in TOE repair by evaluating footprint contact and construct failure characteristics at different tensions.Study Design:Controlled laboratory study.Methods:A total of 18 fresh-frozen cadaveric shoulders, randomly divided into 3 groups, were constructed with a TOE configuration using the same medial suture anchor and placing a Tekscan sensing pad between the repaired rotator cuff tendon and footprint. Nine of the 18 shoulders were used to measure footprint contact characteristics. With use of the Tekscan measurement system, the contact pressure and area between...