Long head of the biceps tenodesis with cortical button technique

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Several surgical options exist for long head of the biceps (LHB) tenodesis, but no definitive standard of care has been established.
• Current methods for LHB tenodesis vary, leading to a need for refined and effective techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel cortical button technique for performing LHB tenodesis.
• To evaluate the feasibility and potential advantages of using a cortical button for LHB tenodesis.

Main Methods:

• The technique involves arthroscopic biceps tenotomy followed by a subpectoral approach.
• The biceps tendon is whipstitched from the myotendinous junction proximally and secured using a cortical button (BicepsButton, Arthrex).
• A unicortical drill hole in the humerus, slightly larger than the tendon, facilitates button passage, with additional suture fixation for enhanced strength.

Main Results:

• The described technique utilizes a smaller-diameter drill hole in the humerus compared to some traditional methods.
• The method provides robust fixation through the cortical button and supplementary suture.
• The procedure aims to achieve comparable functional and cosmetic results to existing tenodesis techniques.

Conclusions:

• This cortical button technique offers an elegant and effective approach to LHB tenodesis.
• It presents a potential advantage in improving postoperative pain and reducing complication rates.
• The technique provides a viable option for surgeons seeking to restore function, reduce pain, and improve cosmesis in LHB tenodesis procedures.