Biomechanical Evaluation of a Cable-Crimp System Designed for Repair of Tendons and Ligaments in the Hand

The goal of this study was to evaluate the biomechanical properties of an alternative method for connecting sutures using a crimp and to compare this method with a knot connection. Multifilament stainless steel suture (3-0 USP size) was connected by means of knot tying or crimp application and compared with FiberWire (3-0 USP size) connected by knot tying. Ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and stiffness were tested on a servohydraulic testing machine. The total UTS of the crimped constructs was significantly stronger and stiffer than the knotted groups, although the strength per strand was not statistically significant. Crimps offer an alternative method for connecting sutures. They have mechanical advantages over knot tying and allow the connection of multiple suture strands as well as the additional advantage of attaching both sides of the repair independently. This may provide precise pretensioning and potentially reduced surgical exposure.