Open repair of retracted latissimus dorsi tendon avulsion

Am J Orthop (Belle Mead NJ). 2013 Jun;42(6):280-5.

Abstract

Latissimus dorsi avulsion injuries are rarely reported in the literature and are managed with a variety of strategies. Primary anatomical repair of tendon to bone may offer athletes the best chance for successful return to sports. In this article, we describe a surgical technique for safely repairing an acute or chronic, retracted, avulsed latissimus tendon back to its insertion on the medial aspect of the bicipital groove of the proximal humerus. Using 1 low anterior axillary incision and 1 posterior axillary incision for tendon retrieval when retraction is more than 5 cm, this technique allows for direct anatomical repair of a retracted tendon to bone using 3 points of bony fixation supplemented by soft-tissue repair. The technique also minimizes the risks for neurovascular compromise and cosmetic deformity, while decreasing the risk for postinjury strength deficits.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Athletic Injuries / surgery
  • Humans
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods*
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Shoulder Injuries*
  • Shoulder Joint / physiopathology
  • Shoulder Joint / surgery*
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery*