Biceps Rupture
Proximal (at the Shoulder)
This is quite commonly seen in association with a tear in the rotator cuff.
Many times a painful shoulder becomes more comfortable after the biceps tendon ruptures and the initial bruising subsides. No treatment is usually required but the rotator cuff damage may need treatment
Distal (at the Elbow)
Usually occurs in middle aged men lifting a heavy weight.
Can be associated with power lifters and steroid abuse.
This is often associated with weakness particularly of supination (e.g using a screwdriver) Because of this operative fixation is sometimes advised, ideally within 4-6 weeks of the injury.
This can often be done through a short cut at the elbow and fixed back to bone using a small metal button
See CT scan of Chronic biceps rupture
This is quite commonly seen in association with a tear in the rotator cuff.
Many times a painful shoulder becomes more comfortable after the biceps tendon ruptures and the initial bruising subsides. No treatment is usually required but the rotator cuff damage may need treatment
Distal (at the Elbow)
Usually occurs in middle aged men lifting a heavy weight.
Can be associated with power lifters and steroid abuse.
This is often associated with weakness particularly of supination (e.g using a screwdriver) Because of this operative fixation is sometimes advised, ideally within 4-6 weeks of the injury.
This can often be done through a short cut at the elbow and fixed back to bone using a small metal button
See CT scan of Chronic biceps rupture
CT Scan of Acute Biceps Tear.
Note that the tendon can clearly be seen here. This is suitable for repair with the button technique
Note that the tendon can clearly be seen here. This is suitable for repair with the button technique
