A novel inserter instrument (Crossbow) for installation of self-reinforcedbioabsorbable arrows into meniscus tissue

A novel inserter, Crossbow, was developed for arthroscopic installation of self-reinforced bioabsorbable meniscus arrows into meniscus tissue. The Cro ssbow comprises a reservoir cartridge for up to four arrows, a triggering m echanism, and an interchangeable (curved or straight) trocar for guiding an d installation of an arrow. A randomized biomechanical study was carried ou t by installing 13-mm-long meniscus arrows into fresh porcine menisci with the Crossbow and with the standard manual inserter trocar system. The mean pull-out force for Crossbow-installed arrows was 56.8+/-14.2 N, and that fo r arrows installed with the manual system was 43.7+/-13.8 N; the difference was statistically significant. While Crossbow is easy and rapid to use and gives good grip of arrows into pig meniscus, it may be an attractive alter native instrument to treat bucket-handle lesions of the menisci arthroscopi cally.