Our son ruptured his quadriceps tendon skateboarding. The surgeon is suggesting using a new way to repair the problem with suture anchors. I guess it costs more than the regular surgery. Are there good enough reasons to go with this method given the increased costs?

The most common way to repair a ruptured quadriceps tendon is with interlocking continuous sutures. The sutures are used to reattach the tendon to the bone. The stitches are passed through the torn end of the tendon then through holes drilled in the patella (kneecap).

The use of suture anchors is a newer technique. Surgeons who know how to use suture anchors say that it is relatively simple and very effective. A smaller incision line is needed. This looks better cosmetically. But it also means less soft tissue around the knee is disrupted. The end-result if a faster recovery time with fewer complications.

When a problem does occur, it tends to be infection. This can occur at the site of the incision and/or infection in the joint. In these cases, there is a definite drawback of suture anchors. They are not easily removed (which is required for infection control).

Overall the multiple advantages of suture anchors make this a method that is gaining in popularity for many operations of all kinds. Early results have been positive with faster return to work, sports, and daily activities.