Single and dual incision technique for acute distal biceps rupture: clinical and functional outcomes

Distal bicep tendon injuries are a traumatic event though rather rare. The pathogenesis is not entirely clear. The most common cause for injury is an unexpected load on the biceps when the elbow is in an extended position. Although several studies have provided insight into the pathogenetic processes of the lesion, the literature suggests to treat all injuries surgically (whether partial or total) if there is high functional demand.

Between January 2006 and March 2016 were studied 20 patients surgically treated for a disconnected distal bicep, 15 with a total lesion and 5 with a partial lesion. The patients were divided into 2 groups. Surgical access with single incision was performed on 13 patients while a double surgical access was performed on 7 patients. The clinical and functional results were studied using an Ewald System Score (ESS).

In both groups, the most rapid improvement was achieved for the parameters of pain and deformity with excellent results, while those of function and movement were normalized as gradual and progressive over next 2 months.

The clinical and functional outcomes during the follow-up examination after surgery showed excellent results in patients treated with both types of surgical procedures.