Abstract
Our study aims to demonstrate the efficacy of using endobutton and interference screw technique in the repair of acute distal biceps ruptures.
From April 2009 to May 2013, 25 consecutive patients had acute distal biceps tendon repairs using an endobutton and interference screw technique. 3 patients were lost to follow up leaving 22 patients for review. Mean follow up was 24 months (1–51). All were evaluated using a questionnaire, examination, radiographs, power measurements, and Oxford Elbow (OES) and MAYO scores.
Overall 95% patients (21/22) felt that their surgery was successful and rated their experience as excellent or good. Mean return to work was 100 days (0–280) and mean postoperative pain relief was 23 days (1–56). 55% returned to sport at their pre-injury level. There was one case (4.5%) of heterotopic calcification with 3 superficial infections (14%). There were no intra or postoperative radial fractures, metalwork failures or metalwork soft tissue irritations. Mean pre-operative OES were 18 (6–37) and post operative 43 (24–48) (p < 0.01). Mean pre-operative Mayo scores were 48 (5–95) and post-operative 95 (80–100) (p < 0.01).
Our study supports that distal biceps repairs' with endobutton and interference screw technique appears to lead to high patient satisfaction rates with a relatively early return to function.
