Suture anchors are devices used to reattach and secure a torn tendon in the shoulder. They function like tiny rivets. The anchors can be made of metal, plastic, or bone. Bone anchors come in several shapes. The original anchors were made in the shape of a button. These were fastened to the bone with stitches through two holes in the button.

A new suture anchor is now ready for use. Made of bone, it is shaped like an arrow with a sharp point at the top. The sharp tip goes right into the bone without drilling a hole first. Testing shows these new suture anchors stay in place, can handle repeated loads, and gradually become part of the bone.