Arthroscopic supraglenoid origin-preserving biceps tenodesis: a reliable, simple, and cost-conscious technique

The purpose of this study was to assess the midterm clinical and ultrasonographic outcomes of a new all arthroscopic supraglenoid origin-preserving tenodesis technique of the long head of the biceps (LHB) brachii tendon in the setting of small to medium-sized rotator cuff repairs.

Thirty patients (33 shoulders) meeting inclusion criteria were identified who underwent LHB tenodesis with this technique in the setting of small to medium-sized rotator cuff repair at a mean age at surgery of 65.6 years between 2015 and 2017. Rotator cuff tears were repaired using the Southern California Orthopedic Institute (SCOI) row technique. The biceps tenodesis was incorporated into the anterior anchor of the rotator cuff repair after bony groove preparation, including débridement and bone vent placement. Frayed edges of the biceps tendon were gently débrided, but the intra-articular glenoid attachment was left intact. Patients were assessed at follow-up by clinical and ultrasonographic examination, as well as a satisfaction questionnaire, the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form (ASES) score and visual analog scale (VAS) score.

Mean follow-up was 32.9 months for the 27 patients (30 shoulders), resulting in a 91% follow-up. Average ASES score was 94.4. Average patient-reported satisfaction with shoulder function was 9.4 of 10 and with biceps contour was 9.9 of 10. Average VAS score was 0.6 of 10, and 73% of patients reported a VAS score of 0. Ultrasonography demonstrated an intact biceps tendon in 27 of 28 shoulders and an intact supraspinatus tendon in all 28 shoulders. Mean range of motion was 170° in forward flexion, 169° in abduction, 49° in external rotation, and to thoracic vertebrae 12 in internal rotation. Mean muscle grading during Jobe test was 4.8 of 5. There were no intraoperative complications. No patients required revision surgery.

In situ arthroscopic biceps tenodesis with maintenance of the glenoid attachment incorporated into rotator cuff repair yields a high rate of healing and consistently excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes as well as patient satisfaction while saving surgical time and cost.