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Contracted distal biceps tendons reliably reattach to anatomic insertion
Results of this study indicated that contracted distal biceps tendons may be reliably reattached to their anatomic insertions, lessening the need for reconstruction.
Using a two-incision repair technique, researchers performed 188 consecutive distal biceps tendon repairs during a 10-year period. Researchers examined graft need, complications and Mayo Elbow Performance Score to assess function through a record review, and patients were surveyed regarding return to work and subjective satisfaction.
For all 23 patients, results showed Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 100 with extension/flexion range of motion from 3° to 138°. While three patients reported mild fatigability, all patients reported being very satisfied or satisfied with full work return, according to the study abstract. Among complications, researchers reported three transient lateral antebrachial cutaneous neurapraxias and one rerupture at the myotendinous junction after retrauma.
“We believe that because the time required for effective stress relaxation of the biceps is unknown, caution should be exercised early in the rehabilitation process to avoid any concentric or eccentric forces in supination or flexion to protect the repair and the myotendinous junction,” the researchers wrote. “This treatment philosophy was followed because the risk of flexion contracture appears to be negligent based on our data, and the protective rehabilitation program after surgery should allow for tendon healing and also a return to normal motion.”
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.