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MINIMALLY INVASIVE SUTURE TECHNIQUES

Method
Minimally invasive suture techniques for tendons and ligaments
Duration
30 to 90 minutes
Recovery time
6 weeks to 6 months

How does a minimally invasive suture technique work?

As specialists for minimally invasive surgery in Freiburg we use modern suture techniques in order to treat injuries of tendons and ligaments with minimal damage to the tissue. These techniques allow precise reconstruction while reducing trauma and speeding up healing. By using special instruments and modern suture materials we can achieve the best possible results with a range of injuries.

Minimally invasive suture techniques are carried out through small incisions in order to spare the surrounding tissue. With special instruments we can expose tendons and ligaments precisely and reconstruct them with modern suture materials. The technique allows the tissue structures to be brought together exactly with minimal scarring.

Different suture techniques are used depending on the type and the site of the injury. These include Kessler sutures, Bunnell sutures or modified techniques for particular applications. The choice of technique is guided by the quality of the tissue and by how stable the reconstruction needs to be.

Modern suture materials such as absorbable or permanent sutures are chosen according to the expected course of healing and the demands that will be placed on the repair. Aftercare is adapted individually to the suture technique used.

Rehabilitation after a minimally invasive suture technique

Aftercare following minimally invasive suture techniques proceeds in stages and is guided by the type of reconstruction carried out and by the quality of the tissue.

Phase I (weeks 1 to 6): protection and wound healing

In the first phase the emphasis is on protecting the sutured structures. The aim is to support wound healing and avoid complications.

  • Unloading and immobilisation according to the site
  • Wound checks and changes of dressing
  • Reducing pain and swelling
  • Passive mobilisation exercises under guidance
Phase II (weeks 6 to 12): building up load

In the second phase the load is increased step by step and movement is improved.

  • Gradual increase in load
  • Active movement therapy
  • Strengthening exercises for the muscles concerned
  • Co-ordination training
Phase III (months 4 to 6): functional build-up

In this phase the focus is on restoring full function.

  • Sport-specific training
  • Load training for everyday activities
  • Return to light sporting activities
  • Functional tests before loading is cleared
Phase IV (months 7 to 9): full integration

The final phase aims to restore full load-bearing capacity.

  • Full return to sporting activities
  • Load tests to check function
  • Individual adjustment to personal goals
  • Long-term preventive measures