Biceps Tenodesis

To download a pdf summary of this information click below

Indications for operation
Rupture of the long head of biceps causing pain which has not responded to conservative treatment

Anaesthetic
General Anaesthetic with an interscalene block
(You will be fully asleep and a local anaesthetic injection into the side of the neck will numb the nerves to the shoulder for post-operative pain relief)

Operation type
Open

Incisions
An 5cm incision will be made in the in the axilla (armpit) just under the edge of the pectoralis major muscle (the large muscle at the front of the chest).

Procedure
The muscles and tendons of the upper arm are moved to each side and the ruptured (torn) end of the long head of biceps tendon is identified. The muscle is freed as much as possible but it is usually not possible to restore it to its pre-injury position. A small hole is drilled in the front of the humerus and the tendon stump is secured into the hole using a special "interference screw".

Images

Wound Closure
A single long dissolving stitch under the skin and paper stitches over the top will be used to close the wound.

Dressings
Elastoplast dressings will be placed over the top of the paper stitches and an adhesive bandage over the top of this.

Immediate aftercare
You will wake up with a sling on the arm and your arm may feel numb for the rest of the day.
You can go home when you feel comfortable but will need to wear the sling for 4 weeks