Modified Suture‐Gripping Technique for Arthroscopic Meniscal Suturing

Abstract

Meniscal preservation is essential for the maintenance of knee function. The suture‐gripping technique, using a suture shuttle, enables accurate needle insertion from inside the joint and flexible withdrawal of the suture from outside the capsule, thereby facilitating meniscal repair of the anterior segment. Using a continuous suturing technique with this method is possible, and we described a modified approach. We recently recognized that ARTHRO‐PIERCE, a device originally designed for hip arthroscopy, can be used to perform the same suture‐gripping technique principles for meniscal repair. The ARTHRO‐PIERCE has a sharper tip—when compared with a suture shuttle holding a suture at its tip—that improves penetration, a more rigid shaft that improves reach and trajectory toward the anterior horn and anterior body, and robust suture grasping without relying on a loop mechanism than a conventional suture shuttle. Here, we describe the step‐by‐step surgical technique. This technique expands the versatility of the suture‐gripping technique for anterior meniscal suturing with improved device handling and secure suture control.