Repair of the torn distal biceps tendon by endobutton fixation

A number of techniques have been described to reattach the torn distal biceps tendon to the bicipital tuberosity. We report a retrospective analysis of single incision technique using an endobutton fixation in sports persons.

The present series include nine torn distal biceps tendons in eight patients, fixed anatomically to the radial tuberosity with an endobutton by using a single incision surgical technique; seven patients had suffered the injuries during contact sports. The passage of the endobutton was facilitated by using a blunt tipped pin in order to avoid injury to the posterior interosseous nerve. The patients were evaluated by Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and Mayo elbow score.

The average age of the patients was 27.35 years (range 21-42 years). Average follow-up was 41.5 months (range 24-102 months). The final average flexion extension arc was 0°-143°, while the average pronation and supination angles were 77° (range 70°-82°) and 81° (range 78°-85°), respectively at the last followup. All the patients had a Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score of 0 and a Mayo elbow score of 100 each. All the seven active sports persons were able to get back to their respective game. There was no nerve injury or any other complication.

The surgical procedure used by us is a simple, safe and reproducible technique giving minimal morbidity and better cosmetic results.