Anchor utilization trends with the implementation of a triple-loaded rotator cuff anchor

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) surgery has grown in popularity as the subjective and functional outcome has improved over time. National trends in rotator cuff repair have demonstrated a 600% increase in arthroscopic procedures from 1996-2006.1 There are multiple repair techniques, each with their own purported benefits. The most commonly evaluated repair techniques are the single row and double row repair. Whether single-row (SR) or double-row (DR) result in a clinically significant difference has not been fully resolved.2–4 Advancements in anchor technology have focused on material usage or fixation methods. The development of a triple loaded anchor (3 suture limbs) has the potential advantage of decreasing anchor usage. This has the advantage of saving greater tuberosity real estate and decreasing repair costs. The average selling price (ASP) for a shoulder anchor was $389 in 2017 Q3 (Orthopedic Network News, Vol 29(1) 2018).