Arthroscopic tenodesis for lesions of the long head of the biceps.

OBJECTIVE

Resection of the intraarticular part of the long head of the biceps and tenodesis to decrease shoulder pain due to a pathologically altered biceps tendon and to improve shoulder function.

INDICATIONS: Tenosynovitis. State of prerupture. Instability (subluxation or dislocation of tendon from intertubercular groove). Intraarticular entrapment secondary to hypertrophy of the long head of the biceps in the presence of an intact cuff. To be performed during arthroscopic cuff repair or during debridement of an irreparable cuff tear.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Very thin, frayed, almost ruptured biceps tendon. Complete rupture of the long head of the biceps.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Standard arthroscopy with 30 degrees scope inserted through the posterior portal. Detachment of the long head from the glenoid origin. Longitudinal opening of the bicipital groove. Exteriorization and doubling of the tendon. Drilling of a socket starting in the groove but perforating the posterior cortex only with a guide wire. Passing of the tendon in an anteroposterior direction and securing the anchorage with a bioresorbable PLA interference screw.

RESULTS

Between 1997 and 1999, an arthroscopic tenodesis was performed in 43 patients. Minimum follow-up 2 years. The absolute Constant Score improved from 43 points preoperatively to 79 points at the time of follow-up. No loss of elbow extension or flexion; power of biceps after tenodesis 90% of opposite side. Early on, two failures of tenodesis occurred.