Optimization of the knot configuration for early accelerated rehabilitation after Achilles tendon rupture. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Liu, Wenke; Diao, Yulei; Wang, Zhuoqun; Guo, Lifeng; Yang, Wei; Luo, Yanfeng; Chen, Lin; Yin, Liangjun
• Is Part Of: Clinical biomechanics. Volume 80(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Knot security -- Half hitch -- Achilles tendon rupture -- PRBT; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Osteopathic medicine -- Periodicals; Biomechanics -- Periodicals; Osteopathic Medicine -- Periodicals; 612.76
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2020.105139
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0268-0033

Abstract

Abstract: Background Panda Rope Bridge Technique (PRBT) was an new minimally invasive technique consisted of two bridge anchors (proximal anchors at calcaneus and distal anchors at myotendinous junction) and strong ropes (threads of the suture anchors) stretched between them, which was suitable for early accelerated rehabilitation of Achilles tendon rupture. However, the optimal knot configuration with PRBT was unknow. The purpose of this study was identify minimum number of half hitches necessary to maintain knot security for PRBT. Methods Using an Instron device we tested the effect of different knot configuration in two kinds of suture threads (Ethibond™ #5 and Ultrabraid™ #2). According to the result of it, we put the optimal knot configuration into Part 1 with PRBT test model and Part 2 with modified PRBT test model, to evaluate whether the optimal knot configuration could complete the cyclic loading test simulated early rehabilitation. Findings In the first part of the study, the optimal knot configuration of Ethibond™ #5 suture thread was the combination of three half hitches and one double throw half knot, and the optimal knot configuration of Ultrabraid™ #2 suture thread was the combination of five half hitches and one double throw half knot. In the second part of the study, only Ultrabraid™ #2 suture thread with optimal knot configuration had finished all test in Part 1. Interpretation The Ultrabraid™ #2 suture thread with optimal knot configuration was suitable for PRBT with early accelerated rehabilitation after Achilles tendon repair. Highlights: Panda Rope Bridge Technique is suitable for early rehabilitation after Achilles tendon rupture. The knots used for Panda Rope Bridge Technique should not be less than five half hitches. Ultrabraid™ #2 suture with optimal knot is better than Ethibond™ #5 suture. Ultrabraid™ #2 suture is suitable for Panda Rope Bridge Technique.