Biceps tenodesis is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to repair a rupture or partial tear of the biceps tendon. Surgical treatment for a biceps tendon tear of the shoulder is rarely needed. However, surgery may be the right option for those with partial tears whose symptoms are not relieved with nonsurgical treatment.
In biceps tenodesis surgery in the shoulder, the biceps tendon is reattached to the humerus (upper arm bone). The surgeon creates 2-3 small incisions in the arm and inserts an arthroscopic camera and surgical tools through the small incisions. The camera allows the surgeon to view the procedure on a TV in the operating room.The biceps tendon is located and damaged portions are removed. The surgeon places the biceps tendon in its correct anatomical position and anchors the tendon back to the humerus with special surgical screws. At the end of the surgery, the surgeon removes the arthroscopic camera and tools, and closes the incisions with sutures.
In bicep tenodesis surgery in the elbow, the surgeon creates 1-2 small incisions in your forearm to reattach the distal biceps tendon. A hole is drilled in the bone and the tendon is reattached using a suture anchor. At the end of the surgery, the surgeon closes the incisions with sutures and you are placed in a splint for a few days. You will begin elbow motion within a week of your surgery. You will not be able to do heavy lifting for 3 months until the tendon is fully healed.
Our hand surgeons at Emory recommend the patient begin physical therapy about a week following surgery.