Surgical treatment of distal biceps tendon ruptures results of a multicentric BOTA-study and review of the literature. Belgian Orthopedic Trauma Association.

Distal biceps tendon ruptures (DBTR) are relatively uncommon. This multicentric study, conducted on behalf of BOTA (Belgian Orthopedic Trauma Association), documents the complications and results after surgical treatment of 18 DBTR's. In the current series a repair with Mitek anchors was found to be a simple and reliable fixation that could be performed through a single anterior approach with minor risks of radial nerve damage. If a two-incision technique following Boyd and Anderson is used, the ulna should not be exposed in order to avoid a radioulnar synostosis; splitting the extensor muscle mass is preferable to a subperiostal ulna dissection, and the wound should always be drained to decrease the likelihood of hematoma formation.