The biceps muscle grouping (biceps brachii) is made upwards of two heads, the long caput and the curt caput. The muscles originate at the shoulder and insert on the radius (curt bone in the forearm). The main office of the biceps brachii is to supinate the forearm (pretend like yous are holding a cup of soup in the palm of your hand; this position is called "supination"). The 2nd function of the biceps brachii is to flex (curve) the elbow. Rupture of the biceps tendon tin can occur proximally (at the shoulder) or distally (at the elbow). Ruptures commonly occur when there is an unexpected force applied to the bicep muscle such equally attempting to grab something or someone when they autumn. Most ruptures occur when the elbow is in a flexed position. Some people may experience or hear a "pop" when the tendon separates from the os.

Distal Repair to Biceps Tendon Rupture Proximal Repair to Biceps Tendon Rupture

How is a Biceps Tendon Rupture diagnosed?

Ruptures of the biceps tendon can usually be diagnosed through history and physical exam. Observation of the injured extremity may reveal significant bruising and swelling, as well as concrete deformity. The physical deformity associated with biceps ruptures is termed popeye deformity. The deformity is due to the tendon retracting toward the muscle abdomen causing a big bulge. X-rays may be ordered to rule out an associated avulsion fracture. An MRI may also be ordered to help in visualizing the corporeality of damage sustained to the muscle, tendon, and bone.

Bulging Bicep after Ruptured Tendon Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture

Image courtesy of mdguidelines.com Image courtesy of eorthopod.com

What is Biceps Tendon Repair surgery?

Distal biceps tendon ruptures typically require surgical fixation to restore range of motion and forcefulness to the elbow. This procedure is an open surgical process which tin be performed on an outpatient ground. The goal is to reattach the tendon to the radius bone using either sutures or anchor with sutures.

Biceps Tendon Repair Surgery Bicep Tendon Reattached

Proximal biceps tendon ruptures can be treated conservatively with concrete therapy and anti-inflammatories. Surgery is considered when a patient continues to take pain despite conservative measures. The biceps tendon is not reattached to its original origin; the biceps is attached to the humerus in a procedure called a "biceps tenodesis."

Biceps Tenodesis

Why should I consider Bicep Tendon Surgery?

Distal repair for a biceps tendon rupture should be considered in patients that injure the bicep in their ascendant arm, or active individuals. The goal of surgery is to restore forcefulness and endurance to the musculature as well equally maintain range of motion in the elbow articulation. Without surgery, at that place is a significant probability that function of the injured extremity will be express. Proximal bicep tendon repair is considered when conservative measures fail or do non relieve pain.

What are my restrictions after a Bicep Tendon Surgery?

Total healing time for any injury or surgical repair is normally one year. Limitations vary based on distal or proximal repair. Both repairs for a biceps tendon rupture will require the use of a post-operative sling for up to iv weeks. Physical therapy will begin range of motion and strengthening activities based on protocols established by Dr. Rolf, or your preferred surgeon.

What will be my recovery time?

Distal and proximal bicep tendon repairs are performed equally an outpatient surgery. Formal physical therapy can begin inside 2 days of surgery. Formal therapy can last 12-sixteen weeks with gradual progression to a home exercise program. Most patients are able to return to normal activity, without restriction, xiv-20 weeks after surgery. The variable broad range of render to activity is based on a distal or proximal bicep repair.

What are the risks of surgery to repair a biceps tendon rupture?

Complications associated with bicep tendon repair are rare. Common risks associated with a distal repair include: decreased strength, decreased nerve sensation, and decrease range of motility at the elbow. Common risks associated with proximal repair include: decreased strength, decreased nerved awareness, and decreased range of motion at the shoulder. Both surgical techniques have associated risk of pain, infection, and slow wound healing.


Written Past: Lisa Osterbrock, PA-C, ATC

Edited By: Robert Rolf, 1000.D.

Images courtesy of proactivept.com, eorthopod.com, and mdguidelines.com.