Elbow | Distal Biceps Repair
A distal biceps tendon tear happens when the biceps tendon pulls away from its attachment at the elbow. Such injuries often result from heavy lifting, overuse, or acute trauma to the biceps tendon. Distal biceps injuries can cause weakness with bending and rotating the forearm and are often treated surgically in active patients.
Advanced Techniques in Distal Biceps Repair
Dr. Aaron Schwartz uses a state-of-the-art tension slide technique combined with Arthrex’s Distal BicepsButton™. This approach supports a robust repair through a single, small incision, potentially allowing for early range of motion during recovery.
Benefits of the Tension Slide Technique
- Minimal incision and reduced scarring
- Strong, durable tendon repair
- Early range of motion during recovery
- Shorter recovery time
Patient Resources for Distal Biceps Repair
To help patients understand and prepare for distal biceps repair, Dr. Schwartz recommends the following video provided by Arthrex, a leading medical device company. This video offers valuable insights into the procedure and the recovery process.
An OrthoIllustrated®
animation of Distal Biceps Repair with Arthrex® Tension Slide.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distal biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle to the radius bone near the elbow. It plays an important role in bending the elbow and, particularly, turning the palm upward (supination).
A complete tear can occur suddenly during forceful lifting or when the elbow is unexpectedly straightened against resistance.
Treatment depends on the patient’s age, activity level, symptoms, and whether the tear is partial or complete.
For active patients with a complete distal biceps rupture, surgery is often considered to restore the tendon attachment and improve strength. Some patients may choose nonsurgical treatment depending on their individual circumstances.
During surgery, the torn tendon is identified and reattached to its normal insertion on the radius using specialized fixation.
The specific surgical approach depends on the injury and surgeon’s preferred technique. The goal is to restore the normal attachment of the biceps tendon and allow it to heal.
Timing can be important because the tendon can retract and scar after an injury, potentially making later repair more difficult.
For this reason, patients with a suspected complete distal biceps rupture should undergo orthopedic evaluation promptly to confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Ideally, it gets repaired before 4-6 weeks. For more chronic cases, a cadaver graft may need to be used.
Recovery is gradual. The elbow is typically in a splint for 10-14 days, followed by a hinged elbow brace for 4 weeks.
Patients often return to normal daily activities before returning to heavy lifting. Full recovery of strength can take 5-6 months, and return to demanding sports or heavy manual work is individualized.
The goal of surgery is to restore elbow and forearm function and strength. Many patients regain substantial strength following repair and rehabilitation, although recovery varies depending on the severity and timing of the injury, tissue quality, and other patient factors.
Potential risks include infection, bleeding, nerve irritation or injury, stiffness, heterotopic bone formation, weakness, re-tear, and complications related to anesthesia.
Your surgeon can discuss the specific risks and expected benefits of repair based on your injury.
Is Distal Biceps Repair Right for You?
A suspected distal biceps rupture should be evaluated promptly because treatment options can become more limited as the tendon retracts and scar tissue develops.
If you have experienced a sudden injury with bruising, a change in the appearance of your biceps, or weakness with elbow flexion or forearm rotation, an orthopedic evaluation can help determine whether distal biceps repair is appropriate.
Schedule an evaluation to discuss your distal biceps injury and treatment options. Dr. Aaron Schwartz is based in Portland, Oregon at The Oregon Clinic Orthopedics.