The biceps muscle grouping (biceps brachii) is made up of ii heads, the long head and the brusk head. The muscles originate at the shoulder and insert on the radius (brusk bone in the forearm). The main office of the biceps brachii is to supinate the forearm (pretend like you lot are holding a cup of soup in the palm of your mitt; this position is called "supination"). The 2nd office of the biceps brachii is to flex (curve) the elbow. Rupture of the biceps tendon can occur proximally (at the shoulder) or distally (at the elbow). Ruptures ordinarily occur when at that place is an unexpected strength applied to the bicep muscle such as attempting to grab something or someone when they fall. Nearly ruptures occur when the elbow is in a flexed position. Some people may feel or hear a "popular" 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 normally be diagnosed through history and concrete examination. Ascertainment of the injured extremity may reveal pregnant bruising and swelling, as well as physical deformity. The physical deformity associated with biceps ruptures is termed popeye deformity. The deformity is due to the tendon retracting toward the muscle belly causing a big bulge. X-rays may be ordered to rule out an associated avulsion fracture. An MRI may besides be ordered to aid in visualizing the amount of damage sustained to the muscle, tendon, and os.

Bulging Bicep after Ruptured Tendon Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture

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What is Biceps Tendon Repair surgery?

Distal biceps tendon ruptures typically require surgical fixation to restore range of motility and strength to the elbow. This procedure is an open surgical procedure which can exist 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 tin can be treated conservatively with physical therapy and anti-inflammatories. Surgery is considered when a patient continues to have pain despite conservative measures. The biceps tendon is non reattached to its original origin; the biceps is attached to the humerus in a process 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 hurt the bicep in their dominant arm, or active individuals. The goal of surgery is to restore strength and endurance to the musculature as well equally maintain range of motion in the elbow joint. Without surgery, at that place is a meaning probability that function of the injured extremity volition be limited. Proximal bicep tendon repair is considered when conservative measures neglect or do not salve hurting.

What are my restrictions after a Bicep Tendon Surgery?

Full healing time for any injury or surgical repair is usually 1 year. Limitations vary based on distal or proximal repair. Both repairs for a biceps tendon rupture volition require the apply of a post-operative sling for up to iv weeks. Physical therapy will brainstorm range of motion and strengthening activities based on protocols established by Dr. Rolf, or your preferred surgeon.

What volition be my recovery time?

Distal and proximal bicep tendon repairs are performed every bit an outpatient surgery. Formal concrete therapy can brainstorm within 2 days of surgery. Formal therapy can last 12-16 weeks with gradual progression to a dwelling exercise program. Most patients are able to return to normal activity, without brake, 14-20 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 forcefulness, decreased nervus sensation, and subtract range of movement at the elbow. Common risks associated with proximal repair include: decreased strength, decreased nerved sensation, and decreased range of motion at the shoulder. Both surgical techniques take associated adventure of pain, infection, and slow wound healing.


Written Past: Lisa Osterbrock, PA-C, ATC

Edited By: Robert Rolf, M.D.

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