Long-term outcomes of complete tears of the distal biceps tendon: an analysis of surgical management at a median follow-up of 14.7 years

Review written by Dr Val Jones info

Key Points

  1. A full thickness distal biceps rupture can have a significant impact on strength and function; forearm supination strength is the most impacted following this injury.
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BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

Full thickness distal biceps ruptures can result in significant functional limitations if left untreated, resulting in large strength deficits primarily in forearm supination, followed by elbow flexion (1). Treatment in the medically well, active patient, is aimed at an acute surgical repair, usually within the first 2-3 weeks post-injury, as a delayed repair can result in an increased risk of post-operative complications (2).

However, there is very little written in the literature about the long-term effectiveness of this type of surgery.

The aim of this study was to look at long-term outcomes following distal biceps repair surgery, following a full thickness tear, and also to analyze patient demographics and mechanism of injury.

Treatment of distal biceps ruptures in the medically well, active patient, is aimed at an acute surgical repair, usually within the first 2-3 weeks post-injury.
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The hook test was found to be the most clinically useful test in diagnosing this condition and should be considered as part of a battery of clinical tests.

METHODS

  • A retrospective review of all patient records in a single institution was undertaken over a 20-year period.
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