Chronic rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon: comparison of 2-year results following primary versus revision open subpectoral biceps tenodesis

Authors:

Simon A Euler, Marilee P Horan, Michael B Ellman, Joshua A Greenspoon, Peter J Millett

Abstract:

Spontaneous rupture of the long head of the biceps (LHB) tendon represents up to 90 % of all biceps tendon ruptures and is frequently associated with pathology of the rotator cuff. Most proximal LHB tendon ruptures occur in patients over the age of 50 years and typically involve intrinsic tendon degeneration within the bicipital groove or along the biceps-labral complex. Furthermore, ‘‘iatrogenic’’ rupture of the LHB occurs following surgical tenotomy. Non-operative treatment is usually successful in these cases; however, LHB tenodesis may become necessary in selected patients with persistent symptoms such as pain, cramping, weakness and cosmetic deformity of the biceps muscle. Although infrequent, post-surgical rupture of a prior LHB tenodesis can lead to recurrent symptoms that may require revision tenodesis.

The clinical results following LHB tenodesis in patients with chronic symptomatology related to a previous LHB tendon rupture in either the primary or revision setting have been sparsely reported. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of open subpectoral LHB tenodesis in patients with chronic LHB tendon ruptures and to compare the results between primary and revision cases using an internally-derived disease-specific ‘‘Subjective Proximal Biceps Score’’ (SPBS). We hypothesized that patients who underwent primary tenodeses would demonstrate greater symptomatic improvement when compared to those who underwent revision tenodeses.

For the complete study: Chronic rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon: comparison of 2-year results following primary versus revision open subpectoral biceps tenodesis

Peter Millett, MD

Average rating:

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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Chronic rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon: comparison of 2-year results following primary versus revision open subpectoral biceps tenodesis

Authors:

Abstract:

About the Author: Peter Millett, MD