Tendon Suturing techniques in orthopaedics for 10 marks. Give diagrams

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tendon suturing techniques orthopaedics Kessler Bunnell

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tendon repair suture technique diagram

This orthopaedic illustration depicts the Bunnell suture repair technique used for triceps tendon ruptures. Image A is a detailed anatomical drawing showing the triceps muscle belly in red, distal triceps tendon, and a semitendinosus allograft. The allograft is looped around the triceps tendon and secured to the distal bone (olecranon) using the Bunnell technique. The repair features non-absorbable sutures woven in a characteristic criss-cross, figure-of-eight pattern (whipstitch) through the tendon substance to provide high tensile strength and minimize suture pullout. Image B provides a simplified schematic diagram of the same Bunnell stitch configuration, highlighting the 'X' shaped intersections of the suture and the horizontal locking components that bridge the gap between two ends of a ruptured tendon or a tendon-bone interface. This visual material is intended for orthopedic education regarding surgical management of tendon injuries and biomechanical stability in ligamentous repair.

This orthopaedic illustration depicts the Bunnell suture repair technique used for triceps tendon ruptures. Image A is a detailed anatomical drawing showing the triceps muscle belly in red, distal triceps tendon, and a semitendinosus allograft. The allograft is looped around the triceps tendon and secured to the distal bone (olecranon) using the Bunnell technique. The repair features non-absorbable sutures woven in a characteristic criss-cross, figure-of-eight pattern (whipstitch) through the tendon substance to provide high tensile strength and minimize suture pullout. Image B provides a simplified schematic diagram of the same Bunnell stitch configuration, highlighting the 'X' shaped intersections of the suture and the horizontal locking components that bridge the gap between two ends of a ruptured tendon or a tendon-bone interface. This visual material is intended for orthopedic education regarding surgical management of tendon injuries and biomechanical stability in ligamentous repair.

This composite educational graphic details a subscapularis tendon repair technique. Panel A is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating the management of two mattress sutures placed in the tendon stump. Scissor icons indicate the cutting of one limb from each mattress suture, while blue and red lines represent the remaining limbs retained for further repair stages. Panel B is an intra-operative arthroscopic photograph showing the corresponding surgical view within the shoulder joint. A black arrow in Panel B points to the two retained white, braided suture limbs emerging from the repaired subscapularis tendon. The surgical field displays the reddish-pink, fleshy texture of the tendon stump anchored to the lighter-colored bony footprint of the lesser tuberosity. This visual aids in understanding complex suture management during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, specifically the transition between primary tendon fixation and subsequent suture bridging or comma tissue repair.

This composite educational graphic details a subscapularis tendon repair technique. Panel A is a simplified schematic diagram illustrating the management of two mattress sutures placed in the tendon stump. Scissor icons indicate the cutting of one limb from each mattress suture, while blue and red lines represent the remaining limbs retained for further repair stages. Panel B is an intra-operative arthroscopic photograph showing the corresponding surgical view within the shoulder joint. A black arrow in Panel B points to the two retained white, braided suture limbs emerging from the repaired subscapularis tendon. The surgical field displays the reddish-pink, fleshy texture of the tendon stump anchored to the lighter-colored bony footprint of the lesser tuberosity. This visual aids in understanding complex suture management during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, specifically the transition between primary tendon fixation and subsequent suture bridging or comma tissue repair.

This composite image illustrates the surgical repair of an Achilles tendon injury, likely in an animal model, consisting of two clinical photographs and one schematic diagram. Frame (a) is a clinical photograph depicting a complete tenotomy where the Achilles tendon has been isolated and severed, showing the characteristic gap between the proximal and distal tendon ends within the surgical field. Frame (b) shows the subsequent tenorrhaphy procedure, with the tendon ends being re-approximated using monofilament sutures. Frame (c) provides a schematic representation of the modified Kessler stitch used for the repair. The diagram highlights the suture path, which includes longitudinal intratendinous passes and transverse interlocking loops (indicated by circles) that terminate in a knot. This specific suture technique is an orthopedic standard designed to maximize mechanical stability and resist gapping at the repair site by distributing tension across the tendon fibers. The content serves as an educational reference for orthopedic surgical techniques and tendon healing research.

This composite image illustrates the surgical repair of an Achilles tendon injury, likely in an animal model, consisting of two clinical photographs and one schematic diagram. Frame (a) is a clinical photograph depicting a complete tenotomy where the Achilles tendon has been isolated and severed, showing the characteristic gap between the proximal and distal tendon ends within the surgical field. Frame (b) shows the subsequent tenorrhaphy procedure, with the tendon ends being re-approximated using monofilament sutures. Frame (c) provides a schematic representation of the modified Kessler stitch used for the repair. The diagram highlights the suture path, which includes longitudinal intratendinous passes and transverse interlocking loops (indicated by circles) that terminate in a knot. This specific suture technique is an orthopedic standard designed to maximize mechanical stability and resist gapping at the repair site by distributing tension across the tendon fibers. The content serves as an educational reference for orthopedic surgical techniques and tendon healing research.

A composite image consisting of an intraoperative photograph (left) and a corresponding anatomical diagram (right) focusing on orthopedic surgical repair of the distal biceps tendon. The clinical photograph displays a surgical incision at the antecubital fossa with the distal biceps tendon exteriorized. The tendon is bifurcated into two distinct heads, labeled 'M' for medial and 'L' for lateral in the surgical field. Suture material is shown interlaced through each tendon head using a four-throw modified Krackow whipstitch technique, with long suture leads extending distally for eventual reattachment to the radial tuberosity. The anatomical diagram on the right provides a schematic representation of this technique, labeling the bifurcated tendon as 'SH' (short head) and 'LH' (long head). It illustrates the specific looping and locking mechanism of the Krackow stitch on each side of the tendon mid-substance, emphasizing the anatomical separation of the bifid distal biceps for anatomic footprint restoration during surgical reattachment.

A composite image consisting of an intraoperative photograph (left) and a corresponding anatomical diagram (right) focusing on orthopedic surgical repair of the distal biceps tendon. The clinical photograph displays a surgical incision at the antecubital fossa with the distal biceps tendon exteriorized. The tendon is bifurcated into two distinct heads, labeled 'M' for medial and 'L' for lateral in the surgical field. Suture material is shown interlaced through each tendon head using a four-throw modified Krackow whipstitch technique, with long suture leads extending distally for eventual reattachment to the radial tuberosity. The anatomical diagram on the right provides a schematic representation of this technique, labeling the bifurcated tendon as 'SH' (short head) and 'LH' (long head). It illustrates the specific looping and locking mechanism of the Krackow stitch on each side of the tendon mid-substance, emphasizing the anatomical separation of the bifid distal biceps for anatomic footprint restoration during surgical reattachment.

This composite educational material demonstrates the surgical management of a subscapularis tendon tear in the right shoulder, specifically focusing on the 'comma tissue' repair. Panel A provides an anatomical line diagram illustrating the relationship between the humeral head, subscapularis, and the arc-shaped comma tissue (superior glenohumeral ligament/coracohumeral ligament complex). Panel B is an arthroscopic image showing the subacromial space after initial subscapularis repair; two retained blue suture limbs (black arrow) are visible near the irregularly textured comma tissue. Panel C shows the same arthroscopic view following the completion of the comma tissue repair. The sutures (black arrow) have been passed through the tissue using an antegrade suture passer, effectively securing the comma tissue to the repaired tendon complex. This technique is used to restore the anatomical stability of the rotator cuff. The images demonstrate key landmarks including the humeral head, the subscapularis tendon stump, and the fibrous comma sign, highlighting the transition from initial suture retention to final tissue fixation.

This composite educational material demonstrates the surgical management of a subscapularis tendon tear in the right shoulder, specifically focusing on the 'comma tissue' repair. Panel A provides an anatomical line diagram illustrating the relationship between the humeral head, subscapularis, and the arc-shaped comma tissue (superior glenohumeral ligament/coracohumeral ligament complex). Panel B is an arthroscopic image showing the subacromial space after initial subscapularis repair; two retained blue suture limbs (black arrow) are visible near the irregularly textured comma tissue. Panel C shows the same arthroscopic view following the completion of the comma tissue repair. The sutures (black arrow) have been passed through the tissue using an antegrade suture passer, effectively securing the comma tissue to the repaired tendon complex. This technique is used to restore the anatomical stability of the rotator cuff. The images demonstrate key landmarks including the humeral head, the subscapularis tendon stump, and the fibrous comma sign, highlighting the transition from initial suture retention to final tissue fixation.

This medical illustration depicts a surgical technique for Achilles tendon repair reinforced with a gastrosoleus fascia turn-down flap. The line diagram is divided into two views showing the posterior aspect of the lower leg and ankle. The left view shows the harvest site of a longitudinal fascial strip from the gastrosoleus complex, which is reflected distally. The right view provides a detailed anatomical perspective of the repair site, where the Achilles tendon has been sutured using a series of three parallel, criss-cross (X-pattern) suture lines. The gastrosoleus fascia strip is illustrated as being rotated or twisted 180 degrees to overlay and reinforce the primary tendon repair site. This surgical algorithm is characteristic of chronic Achilles tendon rupture management, where local tissue transfer is utilized to bridge gaps or augment the structural integrity of the weakened tendon. The diagram highlights key surgical landmarks including the calcaneus, the Achilles tendon body, and the proximal gastrocnemius muscle belly.

This medical illustration depicts a surgical technique for Achilles tendon repair reinforced with a gastrosoleus fascia turn-down flap. The line diagram is divided into two views showing the posterior aspect of the lower leg and ankle. The left view shows the harvest site of a longitudinal fascial strip from the gastrosoleus complex, which is reflected distally. The right view provides a detailed anatomical perspective of the repair site, where the Achilles tendon has been sutured using a series of three parallel, criss-cross (X-pattern) suture lines. The gastrosoleus fascia strip is illustrated as being rotated or twisted 180 degrees to overlay and reinforce the primary tendon repair site. This surgical algorithm is characteristic of chronic Achilles tendon rupture management, where local tissue transfer is utilized to bridge gaps or augment the structural integrity of the weakened tendon. The diagram highlights key surgical landmarks including the calcaneus, the Achilles tendon body, and the proximal gastrocnemius muscle belly.

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Kessler suture flexor tendon repair finger

Clinical photograph of an intraoperative surgical procedure for flexor tendon repair in the hand. The image focuses on the palmar aspect, demonstrating the repair of a sectioned flexor tendon, specifically utilizing the modified Kessler suture technique. Visible components include exposed flexor tendons in Zone II, held and manipulated with surgical needles and sutures. A green-hubbed hypodermic needle is used for stabilization of the tendon ends. The surgical field shows a vertical incision near the base of the index finger and distal palmar crease, with sutures already placed in the surrounding skin. There is evidence of localized soft tissue trauma, bruising, and bloodstains. The background includes sterile surgical drapes, gauze, and a gloved hand, providing clinical context for orthopedic or plastic surgery training regarding hand trauma and tendon reconstruction.

Clinical photograph of an intraoperative surgical procedure for flexor tendon repair in the hand. The image focuses on the palmar aspect, demonstrating the repair of a sectioned flexor tendon, specifically utilizing the modified Kessler suture technique. Visible components include exposed flexor tendons in Zone II, held and manipulated with surgical needles and sutures. A green-hubbed hypodermic needle is used for stabilization of the tendon ends. The surgical field shows a vertical incision near the base of the index finger and distal palmar crease, with sutures already placed in the surrounding skin. There is evidence of localized soft tissue trauma, bruising, and bloodstains. The background includes sterile surgical drapes, gauze, and a gloved hand, providing clinical context for orthopedic or plastic surgery training regarding hand trauma and tendon reconstruction.

This clinical photograph captures an intraoperative view of an orthopedic surgical procedure on a human hand, specifically a flexor tendon repair in Zone II (the 'no man's land' of the hand). The image demonstrates the Kessler suture technique, a core suture method used to provide high tensile strength during tendon end-to-end anastomosis. Visible pathology includes a significant laceration across the base of the index finger and the distal palmar crease, with exposed underlying soft tissue and minor hemorrhage. Surgical instrumentation is present, including hypodermic needles used as temporary transfixion pins to stabilize the tendon ends and a white protective plate or background material used to isolate the surgical site. A rubber band traction system is also visible, likely part of a dynamic splinting or mobilization protocol (such as the Kleinert or Duran technique) to prevent post-operative adhesions. This visual is highly relevant for hand surgery education, specifically regarding primary flexor tendon reconstruction and intraoperative stabilization methods.

This clinical photograph captures an intraoperative view of an orthopedic surgical procedure on a human hand, specifically a flexor tendon repair in Zone II (the 'no man's land' of the hand). The image demonstrates the Kessler suture technique, a core suture method used to provide high tensile strength during tendon end-to-end anastomosis. Visible pathology includes a significant laceration across the base of the index finger and the distal palmar crease, with exposed underlying soft tissue and minor hemorrhage. Surgical instrumentation is present, including hypodermic needles used as temporary transfixion pins to stabilize the tendon ends and a white protective plate or background material used to isolate the surgical site. A rubber band traction system is also visible, likely part of a dynamic splinting or mobilization protocol (such as the Kleinert or Duran technique) to prevent post-operative adhesions. This visual is highly relevant for hand surgery education, specifically regarding primary flexor tendon reconstruction and intraoperative stabilization methods.

This clinical photograph demonstrates an intraoperative view of a flexor tendon repair in the hand. The patient's hand is shown in a supine position, prepared with a yellow-tinted antiseptic solution. Two surgical incisions are visible on the index finger: a proximal incision at the distal palmar crease near the metacarpophalangeal joint and a distal incision at the level of the distal interphalangeal joint. A blue-tinted 8-French (F) suction catheter is used as a conduit, passing through the tendon sheath tunnel. The proximal end of a retracted flexor tendon has been delivered through the palmar incision and is held by a 3-0 polypropylene half-modified Kessler suture, which is being threaded through the catheter. The surgical field highlights the technique for retrieving a retracted tendon and bypassing the pulley system without causing further trauma to the sheath. Forceps are used to guide the catheter and suture. The image serves as a pedagogical resource for orthopedic and hand surgeons regarding tendon reconstruction and suturing techniques.

This clinical photograph demonstrates an intraoperative view of a flexor tendon repair in the hand. The patient's hand is shown in a supine position, prepared with a yellow-tinted antiseptic solution. Two surgical incisions are visible on the index finger: a proximal incision at the distal palmar crease near the metacarpophalangeal joint and a distal incision at the level of the distal interphalangeal joint. A blue-tinted 8-French (F) suction catheter is used as a conduit, passing through the tendon sheath tunnel. The proximal end of a retracted flexor tendon has been delivered through the palmar incision and is held by a 3-0 polypropylene half-modified Kessler suture, which is being threaded through the catheter. The surgical field highlights the technique for retrieving a retracted tendon and bypassing the pulley system without causing further trauma to the sheath. Forceps are used to guide the catheter and suture. The image serves as a pedagogical resource for orthopedic and hand surgeons regarding tendon reconstruction and suturing techniques.

A multi-panel educational graphic demonstrating a modified pull-out suture technique for flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon repair in the hand. Panels A, B, and C provide anatomical illustrations in lateral and anterior views, while panel D is a corresponding intraoperative clinical photograph. Panel A shows the introduction of a specialized 1.4 mm suture passer through the osteofibrous tunnel and digital pulp. Panel B illustrates the retrieval of 3-0 mononylon suture ends, previously secured to the proximal FDP stump via a modified Kessler tie, being guided distally toward the fingertip. Panel C depicts the final fixation of the pull-out sutures over a protective silicone button (shield) on the digital pulp, shifting traction forces away from the primary repair site. Panel D shows the clinical application, highlighting the mid-palmar incision, the suture passer exiting the distal tip of the third finger, and the use of surgical instruments to manage the suture threads. This technique is designed for hand surgery training, emphasizing tendon gliding preservation and soft tissue protection during early mobilization.

A multi-panel educational graphic demonstrating a modified pull-out suture technique for flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon repair in the hand. Panels A, B, and C provide anatomical illustrations in lateral and anterior views, while panel D is a corresponding intraoperative clinical photograph. Panel A shows the introduction of a specialized 1.4 mm suture passer through the osteofibrous tunnel and digital pulp. Panel B illustrates the retrieval of 3-0 mononylon suture ends, previously secured to the proximal FDP stump via a modified Kessler tie, being guided distally toward the fingertip. Panel C depicts the final fixation of the pull-out sutures over a protective silicone button (shield) on the digital pulp, shifting traction forces away from the primary repair site. Panel D shows the clinical application, highlighting the mid-palmar incision, the suture passer exiting the distal tip of the third finger, and the use of surgical instruments to manage the suture threads. This technique is designed for hand surgery training, emphasizing tendon gliding preservation and soft tissue protection during early mobilization.

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Tendon Suturing Techniques in Orthopaedics


Introduction

Tendon repair aims to restore tensile strength, allow early mobilization, and prevent gap formation at the repair site. Tendons consist of longitudinally oriented collagen bundles with high tensile strength when intact but are difficult to suture because conventional techniques tend to pull through. Successful repair requires locking or grasping stitches that loop around multiple collagen bundles to gain a strong anchor point.
Key principles:
  • Suture bites should be 0.7-1.0 cm from the cut end to prevent fraying
  • At least 4 core strands are needed for early active mobilization protocols
  • Knots should be buried within the repair or between cut ends to minimize catching within the pulley system
  • Suture material: non-absorbable braided polyester (3-0 or 4-0); avoid silk, plain gut, chromic gut

Classification of Tendon Suture Techniques

A. Core (Central) Sutures

Provide the main mechanical strength. Can be 2-strand, 4-strand, 6-strand, or 8-strand.

B. Peripheral (Epitendinous) Sutures

Circumferential sutures placed around the repair site - reduce bulk, improve gliding, add 10-50% additional strength.

1. Modified Kessler Technique (Most Widely Used)

Type: 2-strand core suture (the "grasping" technique)
Suture: 3-0 or 4-0 non-absorbable (braided nylon or polyester)
Steps:
  1. Insert needle into the cut end of one tendon stump, pass longitudinally 0.7-1.0 cm proximally, exit laterally
  2. Make a transverse purchase across the tendon, re-enter and pass back toward the cut end
  3. The needle exits at the cut surface
  4. Repeat on the other tendon stump with the same or second suture
  5. Tie the knots between the two cut ends (buried knot)
  6. Finish with an epitendinous circumferential suture (5-0 or 6-0 nylon/polypropylene)
Features:
  • Locking loops grip tendon fascicles - resists pullout
  • Knot is buried between the cut ends - smooth repair
  • Cadaver studies show it is the most widely reproducible and dependable technique
Diagram - Standard Kessler Core Suture (two views: before/after repair):
Kessler-Tajima two-strand core suture showing suture path through tendon ends with locking loops and buried knot
Fig 1: Kessler-Tajima suture (top = 2-strand Kessler; bottom = modified single-knot variant). Suture enters the cut end, runs longitudinally within the tendon, makes a transverse locking purchase, then returns to be tied at the repair site. - Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed

2. Modified Bunnell Technique

Type: 2-strand criss-cross (weaving) technique
Suture: 3-0 or 4-0 non-absorbable braided polyester
Steps:
  1. Insert suture into tendon end, weave in a zigzag (figure-of-eight) pattern through the tendon substance
  2. Crosses the repair site at the core
  3. Weave the other half through the opposite stump
  4. Tie the ends at the repair site
Features:
  • Characteristic criss-cross X-pattern through tendon substance
  • High tensile strength - cadaver studies show superior strength for extensor tendon repairs
  • More technically demanding than Kessler
  • Historically the most widely described technique for flexor tendon repairs
Diagram - Bunnell Technique Criss-cross Pattern:
Bunnell suture technique showing criss-cross figure-of-eight weaving pattern through tendon ends
Fig 2: Bunnell repair - Image A shows anatomical application on triceps tendon; Image B shows schematic X-shaped intersections with horizontal locking components bridging the two tendon ends.

3. Four-Strand Cruciate / Cross-Stitch Repair

Type: 4-strand core suture
Single-cross locked (shown below):
Four-strand cruciate cross-stitch locked suture with X pattern at each end and central knotted repair
Fig 3: Single-cross locked four-strand repair - note the characteristic X patterns at each tendon end and the central locked knot at the repair site. - Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed
Steps (Modified Tsuge / Chung method):
  1. Insert needle laterally into proximal tendon end on volar surface within 1 cm of repair site
  2. Run strand longitudinally across repair site; exit 1 cm past repair site distally
  3. Pass needle transversely in distal part, crossing the loop
  4. Reinsert into distal tendon end; cross repair site at dorsal surface; exit proximally
  5. Reintroduce suture transversely to make a loop
  6. Tie knot
  7. Repeat same passage on opposite side of tendon
  8. Complete with peripheral 6-0 monofilament polypropylene suture
Advantage: Provides 4 strands across the repair site - suitable for early active mobilization protocols.

4. Eight-Strand Repair (Winters and Gelberman)

Type: 8-strand core repair (maximum mechanical strength)
Steps:
  1. Insert needle at repair site, extend through posterolateral quadrant, exit 1 cm from cut tendon edge
  2. Working counterclockwise, anchor transversely in the distal tendon
  3. Complete first posterolateral rectangle by paralleling first suture pass
  4. Carry out same procedure in opposite tendon stump, completing a dorsal rectangle
  5. Advance needle into palmar half; complete configuration to achieve 8 strands across repair site
Advantage: Highest initial repair strength; allows aggressive early active motion
Note: Technically very demanding; may increase repair bulk

5. Modified Becker / Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Technique

Type: 4-strand augmented core suture
Also known as the augmented Becker technique. The MGH technique was found in cadaver studies to be more resistant to gap formation than the Krackow-Thomas or four-strand Bunnell techniques.
Key feature: Uses a locking peripheral horizontal mattress stitch in addition to the core suture.

6. Running Interlocking Horizontal Mattress (RIHM)

Type: Peripheral/core combination technique (newer)
Steps:
  1. Start with a simple running suture directed away from surgeon using 4-0 non-absorbable suture
  2. Using same suture, place running mattress directed back toward the operator
  3. Interlock each returning throw underneath the previously crossed suture
  4. Tie at the near end outside the tendon
Advantages over Bunnell/Becker:
  • Significantly stiffer repair
  • Less tendon shortening
  • Less tendon exposure required
  • Less time to perform
  • Withstands forces of early active motion
  • Recommended for extensor tendon zone 6 repairs

7. Multiple Looped Suture Repair (Campbell's Technique)

As described in the Campbell's Simplified Four-Strand Repair:
Multiple looped suture repair - 4-strand core showing Tajima core sutures with horizontal mattress supplement and running-lock peripheral stitch
Fig 4: Simplified four-strand repair: basic two-strand Tajima core suture supplemented by horizontal mattress suture and running-lock stitch. This configuration provides four effective strands across the repair. - Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed
Steps:
  1. Insert sutures (Tajima core configuration) into each tendon end
  2. Tie knots within the tendon
  3. Add a running-lock dorsal epitendinous suture (5-0 or 6-0 nylon)
  4. Complete the back wall suture
  5. Add horizontal mattress suture (4-0 braided polyester) to core configuration
  6. Tie all knots of core sutures
  7. Complete palmar running-lock peripheral epitendinous suture

8. Figure-of-Eight and Horizontal Mattress Sutures

Used for small or flat tendons (e.g., extensor tendons of fingers, slender flexors).
  • Simpler technique
  • Less technically demanding
  • Used in partial tendon lacerations (>60% cross-sectional involvement)
  • 5-0 absorbable or non-absorbable suture

9. Epitendinous (Peripheral) Suture

Always added as a supplement to the core suture:
  • 5-0 or 6-0 nylon/polypropylene running cross-stitch circumferentially around repair
  • Reduces bulk at repair site (prevents triggering in the pulley system)
  • Adds 10-50% additional strength to the repair
  • Smooth surface promotes tendon gliding
  • Epitendon-first technique was found to be 22% stronger than modified Kessler alone
Cross-stitch peripheral suture detail:
Cross-stitch peripheral epitendinous suture technique showing circumferential weave pattern around tendon repair
Fig 5: Epitendinous cross-stitch suture (Panel A). Suturing starts on far side of repair and proceeds toward operator; simple 50% overlap of each preceding grasp automatically produces weave pattern. - Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed

Modified Kessler Intraoperative Image

Intraoperative photograph showing flexor tendon repair using modified Kessler suture technique in Zone II of the hand
Fig 6: Intraoperative view of Zone II flexor tendon repair using the Kessler technique. Note the rubber band traction system (Kleinert/Duran protocol) for early mobilization post-repair.

Summary Table

TechniqueStrandsBest UseKey Feature
Modified Kessler2Flexor/extensor tendons, generalLocking grasp; buried knot
Modified Bunnell2Flexor, extensor; small tendonsCriss-cross weave; high strength
Modified Tsuge / Chung4Flexor tendons, active mobilizationLooped configuration; 4-strand
MGH / Augmented Becker4Flexor tendonsBest gap resistance
Winters-Gelberman8Maximum strength neededMost strands; highest load
RIHM4Extensor zone 6Time-efficient; minimal shortening
Figure-of-eight2Small/flat tendons, partial cutsSimple; fast
Epitendinous suture-All repairs (supplemental)Always added; reduces bulk, adds strength

Important Concepts for Exam

  1. "No man's land" (Zone II) - Between A1 and A5 pulleys; historically worst prognosis because FDP and FDS run together in a tight sheath. Primary repair is now standard.
  2. Strand number matters: 2-strand repairs are adequate for protected mobilization only. 4+ strands are required for early active motion protocols (Duran, Kleinert, Belfast, etc.).
  3. Gap formation is the most common cause of repair failure. The locking configuration of the Kessler/Bunnell/cruciate techniques resists gap formation.
  4. Primary repair: within 7-14 days (up to 21 days in clean wounds). Beyond 14 days: secondary repair with tendon grafting.
  5. Suture material: Braided polyester (Ethibond) or braided nylon, 3-0 or 4-0 for core; 5-0 or 6-0 polypropylene/nylon for epitendinous layer. Avoid silk (reactive), plain/chromic gut (dissolves too early).
  6. Postoperative rehabilitation: Early active mobilization protocols markedly reduce adhesion formation and improve outcomes compared to immobilization.

Sources: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed 2026; Roberts and Hedges' Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine; Sabiston Textbook of Surgery 21st Ed
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