Distal Biceps Tendon Repair

The biceps muscle is situated at the front of your upper arm. It is attached to your elbow (distal) and your shoulder (proximal) by strong cords of fibrous connective tissue known as tendons.

A tear of the biceps tendon at the elbow is called a distal bicep tendon tear, they are uncommon but when they occur, they are most often the result of a sudden injury.

A biceps tendon tear located at the elbow tends to result in more problems than injuries to the biceps tendon at the shoulder.

For information on proximal biceps tendon surgery, click here.

 

After this type of tear, surgery is usually required to bring the arm back to full mobility and strength. Biceps tendon tears at the elbow will not heal by themselves. Other arm muscles make it possible to move the arm fairly well, but without surgery, most patients will lose 25-30% of biceps strength and are at risk of earlier fatigue and cramping of the biceps muscle.

Dr Soong Chua will assess your condition and a non-surgical treatment may be considered for those who are less active, or if the injury is in the non-dominant arm and situations where reduced strength can be tolerated.

Surgery

There are a number of different surgical procedures for a distal bicep tendon repair. Dr Chua’s preferred method is to make an incision at the front of the elbow, using a small metal button and a strong screw to attach the tendon to the radius bone.

A distal biceps tendon repair can take over 3 months to heal and longer to regain full strength, so it is important that you follow your doctor’s treatment plan and protect the repair by limiting your activities.

After Surgery

Following bicep tendon tear surgery your arm may be immobilized in a splint or cast for the first two weeks.

Expect to be given pain medication and details about post-operative care. Most patients will stay in hospital overnight but the surgery can also be performed as a day procedure. Dr Chua will let you know if this a suitable option for you.

A biceps tendon repair can take over 3 months to heal and longer to regain full strength, so it is important that you follow your doctor’s treatment plan and protect the repair by limiting your activities.

Rehabilitation

The biceps muscle in an important muscle that is responsible for bending the elbow joint and rotating the forearm. A ruptured or torn distal biceps tendon will cause a significant loss of strength in these two movements.

After surgery, you will be given a post-operative care plan. The post-operative care plan may include gentle movement (with a brace) and resistance exercises designed to help you gradually regain motion and strength in your arm.

Other Procedures

Not sure where to start? Give us a call us on (03) 9038 5200.