Surgical management of acute distal biceps tendon rupture associated with contralateral radial palsy

Pan Afr Med J. 2015 Nov 18:22:258. doi: 10.11604/pamj.2015.22.258.7408. eCollection 2015.

Abstract

Acute distal biceps tendon rupture constitute a rare lesion of biceps injuries, typically, easy to diagnosis after lifting a heavy object. Treatment is controversial, nonoperative for sedentary and elderly patients; surgical for young and active individuals. Many operative techniques are described, they all aim to restore an excellent strength of flexion and supination. We opted for one-incision method and fixation using trans-osseous anchoring for our patient, because we are convinced that is a simpler and safer technique. Postoperative rehabilitation, after a period of elbow immobilization, must be operated for returning to full activity. Biceps tendon repair has permitted to our patient who suffer from right upper limb handicap due to radial nerve palsy, recuperating the lost strength and force in his dominant limb and maintaining some quality of life.

Keywords: Distal biceps tendon; supination strength; trans-osseous anchoring.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods
  • Quality of Life
  • Radial Neuropathy / etiology*
  • Rupture / surgery*
  • Tendon Injuries / pathology
  • Tendon Injuries / surgery*