Arthroscopic biceps tenodesis using suture anchors through the subclavian portal

Biceps tenodesis is typically performed through an open anterior incision. Even when an arthroscopic rotator cuff repair is performed, an open procedure is typically performed to address the biceps rupture or subluxation. Recently, there has been great interest in performing this procedure arthroscopically. Techniques have included using an interference screw or 2 suture anchors through an anterior cannula. If the biceps is partially ruptured or subluxated and the proximal end is still visible in the joint, a biceps tenodesis can be performed using standard arthroscopic techniques and suture anchors. The senior author (K.D.N.) developed the subclavian portal in 1997 for arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears using a pointed suture grasper. This portal is located 1 to 2 cm medial to the acromioclavicular joint line, directly above and slightly medial to the coracoid. It provides an optimal angle for suture anchor placement directly through the anterior supraspinatus or coracohumeral ligament and into the humeral head at the edge of the articular cartilage. Anchors inserted through the subclavian portal reproduce the 45 degrees Deadman's angle, which was described for placing anchors during rotator cuff repair. Using a burr or shaver through the lateral portal, the articular and bony surface under the biceps tendon and just proximal to the bicipital groove are abraded. Suture anchors are inserted through the subclavian portal, then through the biceps tendon, and into the bone. Sutures are retrieved and tied through the lateral cannula if there is a tear of the supraspinatus. If the supraspinatus is intact, the sutures can be tied intra-articularly through the anterior cannula. Release of the biceps is not performed until the repair is accomplished, which prevents the tendon from retracting down the bicipital groove. The anatomy of the subclavian portal is reviewed and the technique of the arthroscopic biceps tenodesis is presented. Preliminary results of 11 cases with average follow-up of 24 months are presented. Ninety-one percent of the cases had good/excellent results. Adhesive capsulitis occurred in 1 Workers' Compensation patient, which resulted in a fair outcome.