Time-dependent reduction in load to failure of wedge-type polyglyconate suture anchors

Thirty-two absorbable (polyglyconate) and 24 nonabsorbable (polyacetal) wed ge-type suture anchors (TAG; Acufex, Mansfield, MA) were implanted into she ep tibiae. Load to failure tests were performed on the day of insertion and at weeks 3, 6, and 12, followed by macroscopic examination. Failure type w as suture breakage for nonabsorbable anchors in all groups, with average fo rces of 142.5 +/- 4.8 N on the first day, 138.0 +/- 6.6 N in week 6, and 13 5.6 +/- 2.9 N in week 12. Ln the absorbable group, suture breakage occurred on the first day with a mean force of 133.5 +/- 4.2 N, In weeks 3, 6, and 12, suture cutout occurred with average forces of 33.75 +/- 5.0 N, 23.25 +/ - 2.2 N, and 23.25 +/- 5.9 N, respectively. For absorbable anchors, results at weeks 3, 6, and 12 were significantly lower compared with initial resul ts (P < .001). These results show that wedge-type polyglyconate anchors los e 75% of their initial pullout strength within the first 3 weeks and 84% in 6 weeks.