Long head of the biceps tendon rupture in professional wrestlers: treatment with a mini-open tenodesis

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study is to assess the validity of a mini-open tenodesis of the long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) performed on 5 professional wrestlers injured while fighting.

Methods: Five professional wrestlers with an acute rupture of the LHBT were treated with a mini-open tenodesis procedure without arthroscopic assistance. This technique is performed with 2 miniscule incisions of the skin. The tendon is prepared with biological fibrin glue and with a No. 2 Fiberwire; after that, the tendon is sutured to the bicipital groove with a suture anchor. At the follow-up exam (average 7.6 years; range, 2-13), clinical assessments were obtained with the Constant score (CS) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Forearm flexion strength was measured with a dynamometer, and a magnetic resonance image was also obtained.

Results: At the follow-up, the average age of the patients was 32.6 years (range, 28-40). The average CS of the involved shoulder was 95 points (range, 92-98), compared to 97 points (range, 94-98) of the contralateral side (P = .37). The MEPS was 99.76 for the elbow of the involved side and 99.84 for the contralateral one (P = .34). No significant difference was noted for the forearm flexion strength (P = .31).

Discussion: In this study, patients were all high-demand wrestlers and biceps tenodesis was mandatory. Mini-opening without arthroscopic assistance tenodesis of the long head of the bicep tendon to the bicipital groove has been used for these professional wrestlers. Functional and cosmetic results of this technique have been excellent, and it allowed athletes to return shortly to their sport activity.