Repair of rupture of the distal tendon of the biceps brachii. Review of the literature and report of three cases treated with a single anterior incision and suture anchors

Abstract

Operative repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures is recommended for active individuals desiring maximum return of elbow supination and flexion power and endurance. Traditional two-incision repair methods are highly successful, but they carry the risk of radioulnar synostosis formation if the ulna is exposed. Repair via an anterior incision through bone drill holes requires more dissection and potential risk to the posterior interosseous nerve. The authors present a method of repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures via a single anterior incision using suture anchors. This technique has been used in 3 patients with excellent functional results and is recommended for use as an alternative to the two-incision method.