Endosteal Button Fixation for Latissimus Dorsi Tendon Rupture in a Bodybuilding Athlete

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• Bodybuilders are susceptible to shoulder injuries due to intense training and overhead movements.
• Latissimus tendon tears, though rare, are increasingly seen in athletes involved in overhead activities and weightlifting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present best practices for endosteal button fixation for latissimus tendon ruptures in bodybuilders.
• To highlight the efficacy of this surgical technique in a unique athletic population.

Main Methods:

• Endosteal button fixation involves dissecting the latissimus tendon stump, protecting the radial nerve and brachial artery, and securing the tendon to the humerus.
• Key surgical steps include neurovascular bundle protection and restoring the tendon's anatomical turn before fixation.

Main Results:

• Latissimus tendon repair demonstrates excellent patient-reported outcomes and facilitates a return to elite competition.
• The presented case showed successful return to amateur bodybuilding without residual pain or strength deficits.

Conclusions:

• Endosteal button fixation is an effective treatment for latissimus tendon tears in bodybuilders.
• This technique offers a viable solution for athletes seeking to return to high-level physical activity.