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OPEN SUTURE TECHNIQUES

Method
Open suture techniques for tendons and ligaments
Duration
45 to 120 minutes
Recovery time
8 weeks to 6 months

How does an open suture technique work?

As specialists for open surgery in Freiburg we use well-established suture techniques in order to treat complex injuries of tendons and ligaments. Open procedures allow a direct view of the injured structures and permit precise reconstruction of severe injuries. These techniques are particularly important with complex injuries or in revision surgery.

In open suture techniques the injured structure is exposed through a direct approach and reconstructed under direct vision. This allows the tissue structures to be brought together precisely and different suture techniques to be used according to the type and extent of the injury. Various suture patterns such as Kessler sutures, Bunnell sutures or modified techniques are used.

The choice of suture technique is guided by the quality of the tissue, by the site 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.

Open procedures are indicated particularly with complex injuries, in revision surgery or where additional procedures such as lengthening or shortening a tendon are needed.

Rehabilitation after an open suture technique

Aftercare following open 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 8): 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 8 to 16): 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