Lesions of the Biceps Pulley

The long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon travels intra-articularly. Starting from its origin—at the supraglenoid tubercle—and making its way to the entrance of the bicipital groove, it exits the joint at the level of the biceps reflection pulley (hereafter, pulley), a soft tissue sling stabilizing the tendon course. The histoanatomy of the pulley system has been described by Gohlke and Werner. The pulley is built by fibers of the coracohumeral ligament, the superior glenohumeral ligament, and the supraspinatus and subscapularis tendons. Figure 1 shows the typical arthroscopic view from the posterior standard portal. Lesions of the biceps pulley and instability of the LHB tendon are often found in patients with anterior shoulder pain.

It is generally accepted that dislocation of the LHB tendon is associated with rotator cuff lesions—particularly, the subscapularis tendon. Tendinosis, partial tearing, and dislocation of the LHB tendon have all been investigated as sources of anterior shoulder pain due to a high degree of innervation of the proximal third of the tendon. Repetitive wear and trauma to the restraining structures of the LHB tendon may also result in medial or lateral subluxation or dislocation of the tendon, which in many cases is related to tears of the subscapularis or supraspinatus cuff tendons.

Full Article: Lesions of the Biceps Pulley

Peter Millett, MD

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39 reviews

Alexandra Thompson

Mar 23, 2024

by Alexandra Thompson on Peter Millett, MD

110%

Dr. Millett and his team did a SLAP tear repair and bicep tenodesis on my left shoulder. I use my arms as an artist, and love to swim in the ocean, surf, paddle, and telemark ski. So regaining full use of my shoulder and keeping my bicep attached was very important to me. Now, over two years later, my shoulder has the equivalent range of motion as my other arm and as before the injury, and no pain. After the first three months it felt so good and was so strong that - to my horror - I completely forgot my six-month follow-up.

Not only did Dr. Millett and his team make my arm as good as new, but having had the experience of such kindness and expertise throughout the process of surgery and recovery is like an added shoulder superpower.

Thank you Rita, Brooke, Jason, Sarah, Camille, Olivia, Dr. Millett and everyone! And see you soon when my husband comes in for his knee...

Jeff Chandler

Jan 31, 2022

by Jeff Chandler on Peter Millett, MD

Flawless procedure, Easy recovery

Dr. Millet's repaired my knee and tibia, following a botched operation by a different surgeon. That procedure was virtually pain free and I was weight bearing within a few days. That was 18 years ago and the knee is still strong. A few years after the knee incident, Dr Millet repaired my shoulder. My insurance company approved me for 3 months of disability following that surgery. I was off pain medication in 2 days and had 90% range of motion within a week. I withdrew my disability claim and returned to work within two weeks of surgery. I’m not a famous athlete—just a regular guy. Nonetheless, I was treated like an NFL at the Steadman clinic. Most notable was the time for recovery. Other surgeons perform their hour-long task in the OR and don’t involve themselves in the other functions. Peter and his team manages the entire process from diagnosis, anesthesia, nursing care, and therapy. He takes a holistic approach to patient care and doesn’t skip any steps.

Jenn West

Jul 2, 2021

by Jenn West on Peter Millett, MD

Saved My Life

I went to Dr. Millett after 7 knee surgeries (6 on my right and 1 on my left) and had seen 11 different surgeons who all refused to remove femur metal from my right leg. I am highly allergic to metal and the chronic pain was leaving me bedridden for 3.5wks out of a month. He personally wrote me back on my inquiry, listened to my concerns, scheduled my surgery within a week (due to insurance issues) and personally followed up with my recovery. The level of patient care from Dr. Millett and his ENTIRE team is above any care I have ever received in my 20 years of dealing with orthopedic surgeons. There are not enough words to describe the level of care, dedication and professionalism you receive from Dr. Millett and his staff.
My only disappointment is that I did not find him sooner!!!

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