Treatment of partial distal biceps tendon tears

Abstract

Partial rupture of the distal biceps tendon exhibits features similar to that of complete disruption, including acute antecubital pain, weakness of elbow flexion, and forearm supination, and differs only in the fact that the biceps tendon is still palpable in the partial rupture. There are 2 etiologies, first acute traumatic (such as a sudden eccentric contracture) and second, chronic degenerative tendon disease. For accurate diagnosis, a high index of suspicion must be employed. Initial investigations should include plain x-ray and a magnetic resonance scan. Partial tears <50% may be treated with nonoperative management or with surgical debridement of the surrounding synovitis. Tears >50% should be treated with division of the remaining tendon and surgical repair of the entire tendon as a single unit. Surgical endoscopy provides the ability to further quantify the extent of a distal biceps tear and to treat with debridement. This technique, however, should only be used in experienced hands.