What should you know about a mini Mitek suture anchor?

A suture anchor is placed into bone, with attached stitches used to hold a tendon, ligament, labrum or other soft tissue against its intended attachment site while healing occurs. “Mini” generally refers to a smaller anchor design suited to particular anatomy and repair needs; the surgeon selects the size, material and configuration. It is not a replacement for rehabilitation, and the anchor does not make the repaired tissue immediately strong. Read more about the [Suture Anchor](/materials/suture-anchor/).

Follow the operation-specific restrictions on lifting, weight-bearing and joint movement. A sling, brace or protected range of motion may be needed while the repair settles. Keep the incision clean as instructed, take prescribed medicines according to the plan and attend rehabilitation appointments. Progress is usually based on healing, examination and functional control rather than on pain alone. Suture anchors may be used in procedures such as [Labral Repair](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/labral-repair/), [Meniscus Repair](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/meniscus-repair/) or [Rotator Cuff Repair](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/rotator-cuff-repair/).

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing redness, drainage, fever, severe uncontrolled pain, new weakness, spreading numbness or a sudden loss of the movement you were gaining. A fall or forceful movement that is followed by a pop, swelling or sudden loss of function also deserves review. Do not alter a brace or begin strengthening early without guidance, because protection needs depend on the repaired tissue.

Ask what tissue is being repaired, why an anchor is suitable, whether it is absorbable, how long protection will last and when therapy can advance. Ask which movements put the repair under strain and what symptoms suggest a problem.