Abstract
Introduction and Aims: Chronic distal biceps tendon ruptures have traditionally been treated with a biceps to brachialis tenodesis. The use of a semitendinosus autograft to reconstruct the distal biceps tendon for chronic rupture has been described. This study evaluates the functional outcome of a group of patients treated with autograft reconstruction.
Method: This retrospective study identified six patients who underwent a late reconstruction of a biceps tendon rupture using a semitendinosis autograft. Functional outcome was evaluated objectively and subjectively. Clinical subjective evaluation included the MAYO elbow score and the outcome questionnaire from the Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (SSES). Objective outcomes were assessed by measurement of peak torque for both elbow flexion and supination using a Cybex II Isokinetic machine. Comparisons were made with the opposite limb.
Results: Six right-handed male patients aged 42±7 yrs (range 34–48 yrs) were evaluated in this study, five of which achieved a good to excellent MAYO performance score (average 87 ±12), and SSES score (average 86±21). Peak torque obtained during maximal elbow flexion was 44±17 Nm (vs. 55 ±16 Nm opposite elbow) during supination was 8±4Nm (vs. 10±2Nm opposite elbow).
Conclusion: This study represents a series of patients with autograft reconstruction of the chronic distal biceps rupture. It is the first study to quantitatively measure the recovery of strength of elbow flexion and supination. The semitendinosus autograft provides a strong and reliable reconstructive option in the majority of patients with chronic biceps tendon ruptures. Recovery of elbow flexion and supination power is nearly normal.
These abstracts were prepared by Editorial Secretary, George Sikorski. Correspondence should be addressed to Australian Orthopaedic Association, Ground Floor, The William Bland Centre, 229 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia.
None of the authors is receiving any financial benefit or support from any source.
