Rerupture and Total Complication Rate After Single-Incision Power Optimizing Cost-Effective Distal Biceps Repair

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Tendon Repair

Background:

• The single-incision power optimizing cost-effective (SPOC) technique aims to optimize distal biceps tendon repair by reattaching the tendon to its native site.
• Limited long-term data and ongoing debate surround the optimal fixation strategies for distal biceps tendon repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the complication rates associated with the SPOC technique for distal biceps tendon repair.
• To assess the efficacy of the SPOC technique in managing both complete and partial distal biceps tendon ruptures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 84 patients undergoing SPOC distal biceps repair between 2016 and 2024.
• Inclusion criteria: primary SPOC repair, >12 weeks follow-up. Exclusion criteria: revision, allograft, non-SPOC, <12 weeks follow-up.
• Primary endpoint: rerupture. Secondary endpoints: complications, reoperation, operative time, tourniquet time.

Main Results:

• No reruptures were documented in 84 arms (52 complete, 32 partial ruptures).
• Overall complication rate was 26.2% (22/84), including nerve paresthesias and heterotopic ossification.
• Low reoperation rate of 3.6% for specific complications.

Conclusions:

• The SPOC technique is a viable option for both partial and complete distal biceps tendon ruptures.
• It demonstrates a low rerupture rate, comparable complication rates to other methods, and a low return to operating room rate.