A biomechanical comparison of repair techniques for type II SLAP lesions

BACKGROUND: Multiple options exist for repair of superior labral tears. PURPOSE: To compare commonly used fixation techniques for superior labral tears. STUDY DESIGN: Biomechanical cadaveric study. METHODS: A comparison of the initial strengths of fixation for type II superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) lesions was performed in three cadaveric shoulder groups, each containing seven specimens. Two groups were repaired with screw-in anchors; one group had vertical sutures, the other horizontal. Group 3 was repaired using bioabsorbable tacks. Cyclic traction was applied to the biceps tendon. Repair failure (2 mm of permanent displacement) and ultimate failure were measured. RESULTS: Specimen stiffness was similar between groups. The mean load to repair failure was 123 +/- 17 N in group 1, 114 +/- 11 N in group 2, and 95 +/- 13 N in group 3. The mean load to ultimate failure was 163 +/- 15 N, 161 +/- 12 N, and 145 +/- 12 N, respectively. Although the repair failure loads of groups 1 and 2 were 29% and 17%, respectively, greater than the tack group, the differences were not statistically significant (P >.05). All ultimate failures occurred at the labral-implant interface. CONCLUSION: Initial fixation strength of tissue tack and suture anchor repairs of SLAP lesions are comparable.