The biceps musculus group (biceps brachii) is fabricated up of two heads, the long caput and the curt head. The muscles originate at the shoulder and insert on the radius (short bone in the forearm). The main function of the biceps brachii is to supinate the forearm (pretend similar you are holding a cup of soup in the palm of your hand; this position is called "supination"). The 2d function of the biceps brachii is to flex (bend) 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 catch 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 bone.

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 concrete exam. Observation of the injured extremity may reveal pregnant bruising and swelling, too as physical deformity. The concrete deformity associated with biceps ruptures is termed popeye deformity. The deformity is due to the tendon retracting toward the muscle belly causing a large burl. X-rays may be ordered to dominion out an associated avulsion fracture. An MRI may also exist ordered to assistance in visualizing the amount of impairment sustained to the muscle, tendon, and os.

Bulging Bicep after Ruptured Tendon Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture

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

What is Biceps Tendon Repair surgery?

Distal biceps tendon ruptures typically require surgical fixation to restore range of movement and strength to the elbow. This process is an open up surgical procedure which can be performed on an outpatient basis. 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 physical therapy and anti-inflammatories. Surgery is considered when a patient continues to accept pain despite bourgeois measures. The biceps tendon is non reattached to its original origin; the biceps is attached to the humerus in a procedure chosen 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 hurt the bicep in their dominant arm, or active individuals. The goal of surgery is to restore strength and endurance to the musculature also equally maintain range of motion in the elbow joint. Without surgery, there is a significant probability that role of the injured extremity will be limited. Proximal bicep tendon repair is considered when conservative measures fail or do not salve pain.

What are my restrictions after a Bicep Tendon Surgery?

Full healing time for any injury or surgical repair is usually one year. Limitations vary based on distal or proximal repair. Both repairs for a biceps tendon rupture will require the employ of a postal service-operative sling for up to four weeks. Concrete therapy will begin range of motion and strengthening activities based on protocols established past Dr. Rolf, or your preferred surgeon.

What will be my recovery fourth dimension?

Distal and proximal bicep tendon repairs are performed as an outpatient surgery. Formal physical therapy tin begin within ii days of surgery. Formal therapy tin can last 12-16 weeks with gradual progression to a home exercise program. Most patients are able to return to normal activity, without restriction, 14-twenty weeks after surgery. The variable wide range of return to activeness 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 motion at the elbow. Mutual risks associated with proximal repair include: decreased strength, decreased nerved awareness, and decreased range of motion at the shoulder. Both surgical techniques take associated risk of pain, infection, and slow wound healing.


Written By: Lisa Osterbrock, PA-C, ATC

Edited By: Robert Rolf, M.D.

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