Security of Knots Tied with Ethibond, Fiberwire, Orthocord, or Ultrabraid

Abstract

The 5-throw openly tied square knot remains the gold standard, although the openly tied SAK offers similar security when tying in a hole. Arthroscopic knots, whether complex knots backed up by 3 RHAPs, the 6-throw surgeon's knot, or the 5-throw SAK, give security similar to the standard. Square knots tied with the newer sutures in open fashion are more secure than if tied with braided polyester. Using lower profile knots may be especially important when employing Fiberwire or Ultrabraid, as these sutures tend to result in bulkier knots than those tied with Ethibond or Orthocord.