Abstract: Rotator cuff tears (complete and partial) are surgically repaired without needing more dermal access than percutaneous punctures. The surgeon is afforded a range of options for where to place a second tunnel in the bone, and selection by the surgeon of a desired bone bridge size is provided in advance of tunnel construction. Also, stitching in rotator cuff surgery can be accomplished without the need for suture anchors or added cost of secondary suture passers. Multiple stitch configurations including X-patterns are possible with combinations of preloaded loops and or sutures passed simultaneously through tissue and bone. Fixation is achieved without the use of suture anchors, buttons or other rigid implants.

Abstract: Rotator cuff tears (complete and partial) are surgically repaired without needing more dermal access than percutaneous punctures. The surgeon is afforded a range of options for where to place a second tunnel in the bone, and selection by the surgeon of a desired bone bridge size is provided in advance of tunnel construction. Also, stitching in rotator cuff surgery can be accomplished without the need for suture anchors or added cost of secondary suture passers. Multiple stitch configurations including X-patterns are possible with combinations of preloaded loops and or sutures passed simultaneously through tissue and bone. Fixation is achieved without the use of suture anchors, buttons or other rigid implants.

Abstract: A suture passer (121) and method of using for the exchange of sutures between sections of a device used for attachment of tissue to bone or delivering suture to a separate device with the purpose of pushing then pulling suture through a plane of bone and/or tissue. In one embodiment a U-shaped or teardrop-shaped ridged material (18) (solid wire, braided wire, monofilament extruded polymer) stiffer than the intended suture material is used to pass the suture. Suture material or passing loops may be further contained in a preloaded tube or slotted tube that provides additional stiffening and the elimination of surgical steps. In another embodiment, a method of subcortical-transosseous knot placement is described which increases the load bearing and eliminates post surgical impingement with the acromion.

Abstract: A simple and inexpensive method and apparatus are provided for increasing the pressure at which fluid may be delivered by a lavage/irrigation system.