Use of direct introduction of allograft anchors for rotator cuff repair.

Allograft anchors that can be inserted directly through the greater tuberosity were developed, tested, and used clinically for rotator cuff repair. Mechanical strength testing was performed, and allograft anchors were used in 63 consecutive procedures by a single surgeon. The insertion technique involved directly impacting the allograft anchor through the greater tuberosity without drilling a hole in the bone. Results of mechanical testing showed strengths comparable with those of other anchors (155.8 N), and the anchors locked consistently. This direct insertion technique saves time and procedural steps over traditional anchor insertion techniques while using an allograft anchor that reincorporates into host bone.