The safety and efficacy of biceps tenodesis performed using a novel suture anchor

Abstract

Introduction: Biceps tendon degeneration or tearing is a significant cause of shoulder discomfort and dysfunction. Biceps tenodesis is commonly performed to treat symptomatic biceps tendon pathology. A variety of fixation techniques can be used including screw fixation, endobutton, or suture anchor techniques. This study examines the patient outcomes when the FOOTPRINT™ Ultra suture anchor system is used for biceps tenodesis. Materials and Methods: Retrospective review of consecutive patients undergoing biceps tenodesis was conducted. All patients underwent biceps tenodesis using the FOOTPRINT™ Ultra suture anchor. The primary endpoint was any device-related complication during the intraoperative or postoperative period. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to assess patient characteristics and outcomes. Results: Twenty-nine patients were included in this study; 20 (69.0%) underwent arthroscopic biceps tenodesis and the remainder underwent open surgery. The mean follow-up time was 8.51 ± 5.28 months postoperatively. One patient experienced a postoperative infection within the first 30 days requiring a return to the operating room. Two patients experienced a complication within the first 6 months postoperatively. No patients experienced a device-related complication. No patients experienced a retear of their biceps tendon; two patients experienced a retear to their rotator cuff repair. The mean pain Numeric Rating Scale improved from 5.88 ± 2.58 on a scale of 0–10 preoperatively to 1.94 ± 2.32 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The FOOTPRINT™ Ultra suture anchor appears to be safe for the use in patients undergoing arthroscopic or open biceps tenodesis.