Biceps tendon repair is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia, the procedure involves making a small incision, moving muscles and soft tissues, and using suture anchors to reattach the tendon. Following surgery, a physical therapy plan is created to restore function and motion.
Biceps tendon repair treats tears at the elbow or shoulder. Elbow tears are less common than shoulder tears, but usually require surgical intervention. Causes of tears include extending the elbow against force, such as holding a heavy object with straight arms. Symptoms may consist of bruising, pain, swelling, weakness, and inability to rotate the palm upwards.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia and usually takes about 1- 1 ½ hours. The process is usually as follows:
The surgeon makes a tiny incision on the front of the elbow and moves muscles and soft tissues to visualize the tendon and elbow bone.
Next, the surgeon uses suture anchors to reattach the torn tendon to its normal position in the bone.
After the incision is carefully closed and dressed, the patient is brought to the recovery room where they wake up. Patients are driven home by a family member or friend when they are awake and alert and their pain is managed. The patient’s elbow rests in a comfortable sling during the first phase of recovery.
After surgery, our Elbow Specialist will create a physical therapy plan to help restore function and motion to the elbow so that the patient can return to normal activities and sports.
The biceps tendons attach the biceps muscle to the elbow and shoulder. Biceps tendon tears at the elbow are much less common than those at the shoulder; however, they are usually complete and require surgical intervention.
The cause of a tear is extending the elbow (straightening the forearm) against force. A perfect example is trying to hold the arms straight while holding a heavy object. Symptoms include:
Patients who sustain an injury are encouraged to make an appointment with us.
