Triceps tendon reconstruction using ipsilateral palmaris longus autograft in unrecognized chronic tears

Injury to the distal triceps tendon is uncommon and can be difficult to diagnose, especially when a partial rupture or tear occurs. In situations where an incomplete disruption to the musculotendinous unit occurs, a palpable defect or clear functional loss may not be present. Advanced imaging techniques, such as magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound, can be used to confirm the diagnosis and define the extent of injury. The treatment of a complete rupture of the distal triceps tendon is repair or reconstruction, whereas the management of a patient with a partial triceps rupture is related to the pain, functional deficit, and expectations of the patient. This article presents 2 patients with chronic, near complete disruptions of the distal triceps tendon. In both patients, surgical reconstruction of the injured tendon was accomplished using ipsilateral palmaris longus autograft. This technique allows the treating surgeon to harvest the graft from the ipsilateral upper extremity. The palmaris autograft is then used to reconstruct the injured portion of the triceps tendon using a Pulvertaft weave technique through the intact triceps tendon and osseous tunnels within the proximal ulna. This technique allows for easy surgical setup and harvest of autograft tendon and provides a structurally sound technique for a tension-free reconstruction of the injured tendon. It also permits early postoperative elbow range of motion, with active elbow extension allowed at 6 weeks. The authors have used this technique successfully in the treatment of chronic partial tears of the distal triceps tendon.