Smith & Nephew has announced the launch of the KINSA RC 5.5 Suture Anchor, a development from the firm's endoscopy division for use in repairing injuries to rotator cuffs.

The suture anchor reattaches torn tissue, allowing mobility to be restored and surgeons to operate using minimally invasive techniques only.

Commenting on the design of the anchor, Dr Michael Terry, an orthopaedic surgeon based at the University of Chicago, said that it allows him to "properly sink the anchor first" before applying the required amount of tension.

"This is important because too much tension can interfere with blood flow in the tissue and compromise healing," he added.

Dr Terry also said that the KINSA RC 5.5 Suture Anchor is "easy to use" with "simple and familiar" instrumentation.

Smith & Nephew has said that the new anchor "enhances" the company's range of shoulder fixation devices.

The company can trace its history back to the late 1800s, when Thomas James Smith opened a pharmaceutical shop in Hull, according to the Smith & Nephew website.