Distal biceps tendon tear
This usually occurs in ‘middle aged’ men trying to stop a heavy object from falling. It is associated with pain, swelling, bruising and obvious weakness.
Non-surgical treatment: analgesia, sling. It is likely that you will regain a normal range of motion within the elbow, however, without surgery you are likely to have noticeable weakness with turning your forearm (supination) and bending your elbow (flexion).
distal biceps tendon repair
An incision is made at the front of the elbow. A hole is drilled in the bone (radius) where the biceps tendon normally attaches. The biceps tendon is passed into the hole and held in place with a specialized button.
Benefits: increased strength within the elbow.
Risks: pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, stiffness, weakness, retear, nerve injury.
Anesthesia: General anaesthetic
Duration in hospital: overnight
After Surgery
You will have a back slab (half plaster) for 2 weeks and a sling.
After 2 weeks the plaster will be removed. You will be able to start gentle movements out of the sling but avoid lifting anything heavier than a cup of coffee for 6 weeks.
It may take 6 months for maximal function to be achieved.