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Distal Biceps Repair

What is Distal Biceps Repair?

The biceps is a large muscle located in the front of your upper arm and runs from the shoulder to the elbow joint. It is attached to the bones of the shoulder and elbow by tendons. The distal biceps is the area where the biceps is attached to the forearm bone in the elbow and functions to flex your arm.

Distal biceps repair is a surgical procedure to restore a ruptured or torn distal biceps and tendon, caused by an injury.

Preparation

Your surgeon will explain the procedure, its complications and benefits, and answer any questions you may have.

Additionally, you may be told:

  • To avoid certain medicines (if applicable) before the surgery
  • To arrange an escort to drive you home after the surgery
  • To fast after midnight prior to your surgery

How is the Distal Biceps Repaired?

The distal biceps is usually repaired through a single incision (front of the elbow) or a double incision (front and back of the elbow) technique.

During the procedure:

  • You will be administered general anesthesia.
  • A small incision is made at the elbow, and the torn or ruptured end of the biceps is located.
  • Any damaged tissues are removed using specialized instruments.
  • A small hole is then drilled into your forearm bone (radius bone).
  • The biceps tendons is anchored back to the bone with suture and a button and/or screw.
  • The incision is closed with stitches and a dressing is applied.
  • Your elbow is protected with the use of a brace and sling.

More serious or chronic injuries may need a graft (transplanted tissue) to repair the distal biceps.

Complications

The most common complication is irritation or injury to the sensory nerves of the elbow or the forearm.

Other potential complications are:

  • Numbness, tingling or weakness in the forearm and hand
  • Pain and/or stiffness in the elbow and arm
  • A blood clot caused by anesthesia or surgery
  • The need for additional surgery due to:
    • Infection or bleeding into the elbow joint
    • Re-rupture of the repaired distal biceps and tendon

After-Surgery Care

As you recover, the surgeon will instruct you to:

  • Keep the surgery site dry to decrease the chance of infection
  • Protect the repair by restricting your activities for at least 3 months
  • Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activity for several months

Benefits

Distal biceps repair can help you to:

  • Regain strength and a full range of motion
  • Restore normal function of the elbow
  • Return to normal activities

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