Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures: An Epidemiological Analysis Using a Large Population Database

The incidence of distal biceps tendon ruptures was studied more than 10 years ago in a small patient cohort. Recent diagnostic advancements have improved the ability to detect this rare injury.

The incidence of distal biceps tendon ruptures will be significantly greater than previously reported.

Descriptive epidemiologic study.

A query of the PearlDiver Technologies national database containing public and private insurance patients was used to estimate the national incidence of distal biceps tendon ruptures in the United States. A retrospective chart review of our local population identified demographic groups and risk factors that increased likelihood of injury.

The estimated national incidence of distal biceps tendon rupture was 2.55 per 100,000 patient-years. The local incidence was 5.35 per 100,000 patient-years. The mean and median ages of patients in our regional cohort were 46.3 and 46 years, respectively. Males composed the majority of the injured population (national 95%, regional 96%). Smoking and elevated body mass index were found to be associated with increased likelihood of injury, while diabetes mellitus showed no association.

The incidence of distal biceps tendon ruptures in this study was higher than previously reported.