Distal Biceps Endoscopy at the Elbow

摘要

Biceps tendon ruptures can be classified as acute or chronic and can be partial or complete. The diagnosis of a complete rupture is a clinical one and early surgical reinsertion is usually recommended. Diagnosing and treating a partial tear is often more complex. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging offer additional information, but it may still be difficult to quantify the extent of the tear. Conservative treatment is generally recommended for a period of at least 6 months. Surgery may be indicated if symptoms persist after this period. As most partial tears occur at the interface between the radial tuberosity and the tendon, it is impossible to visualize the tear, without retracting and potentially further damaging the diseased tendon. Biceps tendonoscopy has been described as an option to protect the tendon while increasing the view of the insertion. This paper and video (Supplemental Digital Content 1, http:// links.lww.com/TSES/A32) will describe the technique to safely evaluate and treat the tendon using an endoscopically assisted method.