Distal Biceps Tendon Repair

Overview

A distal biceps tear pulls the biceps tendon off the radius just below the elbow, which weakens the ability to turn the palm up and bend the elbow. For active patients, surgery to reattach the tendon is usually recommended.

The tendon is reattached to the radius through a small incision at the front of the elbow, using anchors, a button or screws. Repair is ideally performed within the first two to three weeks after injury, before the tendon retracts and scars. When the tear is older and the tendon cannot reach the bone, it can be reconstructed with a tendon graft.

Benefits

• Restores strength turning the palm up and bending the elbow
• Reduces fatigue and cramping
• Restores the normal contour of the arm

Who is a Candidate?

Distal Biceps Repair may be appropriate for patients who meet certain criteria. Ideal candidates include:

• Complete distal biceps tears in active patients
• Partial tears that remain painful and weak despite treatment
• Chronic tears (reconstruction with graft)

Recovery & Rehabilitation

A splint or brace is used briefly, with light use of the arm early on. The tendon takes more than three to four months to fully heal, so heavy lifting is avoided for several months.