Distal biceps reconstruction 13 years post-injury

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Research

Background:

• Distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon injuries.
• Most complete ruptures are treated surgically early, but delayed presentations occur.
• Chronic ruptures pose unique challenges for surgical reconstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of successful delayed surgical reconstruction of a distal biceps tendon rupture.
• To evaluate the functional outcomes of Achilles allograft reconstruction for chronic distal biceps tears.
• To discuss surgical options and outcomes for chronic distal biceps ruptures.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a male patient with a 13-year-old distal biceps tendon rupture.
• Surgical reconstruction using an Achilles allograft.
• Functional assessment at 12-month follow-up including return to work and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score.

Main Results:

• The patient achieved full functional recovery of the dominant extremity at 12 months.
• The patient returned to work without limitations.
• The patient reported a DASH score of zero, indicating no disability.

Conclusions:

• Surgical reconstruction with an Achilles allograft can be a successful option for chronic distal biceps tendon ruptures.
• Delayed surgical intervention should be considered for select patients with chronic distal biceps ruptures.
• This case highlights the potential for significant functional recovery even in long-standing injuries, challenging the notion of failed conservative treatment.