Distal Biceps Tendon Repair

What is Distal Biceps Tendon Repair?

Distal biceps tendon repair is a surgical procedure where an orthopedic surgeon reconnects the distal biceps tendon, which attaches the biceps muscle to the radius bone at the elbow, back to its proper position.

• Transosseous Tunnel Technique: Drilling small tunnels into the radius bone to thread and tie the tendon securely.
• Cortical Button/Suture Anchor Technique: Utilizing specialized metal buttons (such as EndoButtons) or small suture anchors to fix the tendon directly into the bone socket.

Your surgeon will evaluate your specific injury to determine which method is most appropriate for your recovery.

Who Should Have a Distal Biceps Tendon Repair?

Surgery is not always necessary for every injury; individuals with partial or very small tears can often recover without an operation. In these cases, a combination of arm immobilization and targeted physical therapy is usually sufficient. However, because complete ruptures of the bone rarely heal properly on their own and can lead to significant permanent loss of arm strength, most patients with full tears require distal biceps tendon repair surgery to fully restore the function, leverage, and stability of the arm.

How Well Does Distal Bicep Tendon Repair Work?

The success rate for this procedure is high, with most patients regaining roughly 85% to 95%+ of their original forearm rotation (supination) and elbow bending strength. To track your progress, your surgeon will compare the strength and range of motion of the injured arm against your healthy arm, providing a clear benchmark for your recovery.

A critical factor in the outcome of the surgery is the precision with which the surgeon reattaches and sets the tension of the tendon. Because of this, it is highly recommended to partner with an experienced provider who performs these procedures frequently, such as the specialists at Fox Valley Orthopedics.

While some patients may experience temporary stiffness or mild weakness following surgery, these issues are typically short-lived. As with any surgical intervention, there are general risks including anesthesia complications, nerve irritation, blood clots, or infection. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we pride ourselves on maintaining very low complication rates.

What Can I Expect When I Have a Distal Biceps Tendon Repair?

Depending on your medical history, you may be required to complete a pre-surgical physical to ensure any necessary health accommodations are made before the procedure. Upon arriving at the facility on the day of your surgery, you will meet with your anesthesiologist and surgeon. Depending on your needs, you will receive either general anesthesia or regional nerve blocks. During the procedure, your arm will be positioned to allow the surgeon full access to the front of the elbow. Depending on your overall health and the specifics of the case, you will typically be discharged the same day to recover at home.

Following surgery, your doctor will provide a plan for pain management and icing. To protect the surgical repair, your arm will initially be palced ina splint or hinged brace with your elbow bent, and you will be restricted from lifting or carrying weight with that arm for approximately 6 weeks.