Traumatic closed transection of the biceps brachii in the military parachutist

Abstract

Static line injury to the military paratrooper's arm occasionally produces an unusual muscle injury: closed transection of the belly of the biceps brachii. A review of twenty-eight untreated paratroopers so injured demonstrated significant residual weakness and deformity. Attempts at late repair resulted in only minimum improvement. The results of twenty fresh injuries treated by either surgical repair or aspiration followed by closed reduction and splinting are presented.