[Diagnosis, therapy and results of biceps tendon ruptures]

During 1980 and 1988 a total of 29 male patients suffering from ruptures of the biceps tendons were treated operatively. In 21 cases the long tendon was involved, in two the short tendon, and in 6 cases the distal tendon. All ruptures of the long tendon and one of the short tendon had resulted from degeneration without any adequate trauma. Refixation of the long biceps tendon was performed with drill holes along the bicipital sulcus. In ruptures of the short and distal tendon various procedures were applied. Results of operative treatment were better in ruptures of the long biceps tendon than in ruptures of the short tendon. An operation may be successful even some months after injury.