biceps brachii tendon rupture

Biceps brachii rupture can occur at either superior or inferior attachment but most commonly involves the long head at its proximal origin at the superior glenoid labrum. Rupture of the distal biceps rupture causes weakness when supinating the forearm. It is therefore associated with significant functional loss, especially in laborers.

Clinical presentation

The biceps tendon has a fibrous covering (lacertus fibrosus) that can clinically feel similar to an intact tendon even though the distal biceps tendon has torn.

Pathology

Trauma-related injury involves the distal part, which is rare and seen in young people. Degenerative causes involve the proximal part of the tendon.

Radiographic features

MRI

MR imaging features that can help diagnose ruptures include :

• depiction of the absence of the tendon distally 
• fluid-filled tendon sheath: can be found in most cases
• antecubital fossa mass
• muscle edema: non-specific 
• muscle atrophy: non-specific 

Positioning 

The FABS position is considered an optimal position for the assessment of a distal biceps brachii tendons .

Treatment and prognosis

Ruptures of the distal biceps tendon are usually treated surgically. This involves reattaching the tendon to the radial tuberosity. There are numerous acceptable surgical techniques for this procedure .

Early surgical intervention is recommended. Delay to diagnosis and treatment is associated with retraction of the tendon. If this is to occur, a reconstruction rather than a repair is indicated.

Differential diagnosis

On certain imaging planes, consider partial tearing of the biceps tendon.

Siehe auch:

• Ruptur der langen Bizepssehne
• Ruptur der distalen Bizepssehne
• Schlüsselloch-Operation nach Froimson
• Ruptur der kurzen Bizepssehne

und weiter:

• Endobutton