Suture Anchor

John Scanaliato, MD

Content Contributor

Evolution of Suture Anchor

Suture anchors are the technology of choice when performing labral repair. A variety of suture anchor types exist, each with their own benefits and limitations. Suture anchors contain three components: the anchor, the eyelet and the suture. The anchor can be a screw mechanism, or an interference fit.

Materials used for anchors include various metals or bioabsorbable composites. The eyelet is a loop in the anchor through which the suture passes. Finally, the suture is what connects the under-repair tissue to the anchor. Suture can be absorbable or permanent, and varies in strength and elasticity. The ideal anchor when performing a labral repair is low profile, to eliminate the possibility of the anchor violating the glenoid cartilage, and provides excellent pullout strength.

Technology Spotlight

Mitek GRYPHON Suture Anchor™

The Mitek GRYPHON Suture Anchor™ was specifically designed to be used for reattachment of glenoid labrum to bone. The anchor is constructed of BIOCRYL RAPIDE®, which demonstrates predictable resorption and bony ingrowth. It comes in a thread-in option to allow for tactile feedback during insertion, or a push-in option, which offers 15% greater pull-out strength when compared to similar anchors.

Preloaded with ORTHOCORD, the suture itself has 55 lbs. of tensile strength and is 45% less stiff than Fiberwire®. Finally, the anchor itself is cannulated, to allow for blood to channel to the surface to aid in local healing.