Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow

Korean Shoulder and Elbow Society (대한견·주관절의학회)
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Minimally invasive distal biceps tendon repair: a case series

  • Received : 2023.03.28
  • Accepted : 2023.06.13
  • Published : 2023.09.01
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Abstract

Background: Distal biceps tendon repairs are commonly performed using open techniques. A minimally invasive distal biceps tendon repair technique using a speculum and hooded endoscope was developed to improve visualization, reduce soft-tissue dissection, and minimize complications. This paper describes the technique and reports the outcomes of 75 minimally invasive distal biceps tendon repairs. Methods: The operation reports and outcomes of 75 patients who underwent distal biceps tendon repair using this technique between 2011 and 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Median time to follow-up was 12 months (interquartile range [IQR], 6-56 months). Primary outcomes were function as measured by the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand Score (DASH) questionnaire, and rate of complications. Median DASH score was 1.7 of 100 (IQR, 0-6.8). There were 2 of 75 (2.7%) re-ruptures of the distal tendon. There were no cases of vascular injury, proximal radius fracture, or posterior interosseous nerve, median, or ulnar nerve palsy. Conclusions: In this series, minimally invasive distal biceps repair was safe and effective with a low rate of major complications. Recovery of function, as indicated by low DASH scores, was satisfactory, and inconvenience during recovery was minimized. Level of evidence: IV.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

We would like to thank Emma Petta BSc (Nsg) for assistance in research design and data collection, and Jane Waddy BSc (Sports Science) MPhysio, Nicole Perera BSc (OT), and Simon Millichip B. Phys. Ed, Dip Physio, Post Grad Dip Physio. We are grateful to Dr Erin Cvejic BA (Hons) Psych PhD MBiostat GStat for assistance with statistical analysis.

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