Distal Biceps Tendon Tear at DRHC Dubai Elbow Clinic

At DRHC Dubai, we offer expert care for distal biceps tendon tears, ensuring patients regain strength and function in their arm. A distal biceps tendon tear occurs when the tendon attaching the biceps muscle to the forearm (radial tuberosity) becomes partially or completely torn. This injury typically affects individuals engaged in heavy lifting or those involved in activities that require repetitive arm movements.

What is a Distal Biceps Tendon Tear?

The biceps muscle is responsible for flexing the elbow and rotating the forearm. A tear of the distal biceps tendon can result in pain, weakness, and decreased function of the arm.

This injury is more common in middle-aged men and often occurs when the arm is subjected to sudden force while the elbow is bent, such as when trying to lift or catch a heavy object. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent long-term loss of strength and function.

What causes a distal biceps tendon tear?

Distal biceps tendon injuries often result from a forceful, eccentric contraction of the elbow. This means that the biceps muscle is contracting but the elbow is straightening, resulting in lengthening of the muscle-tendon unit. For example, this can occur when a patient attempts to pick up a heavy piece of furniture by bending the elbow, but the weight of the furniture causes the elbow to straighten instead.

Biceps tendon ruptures can occur due to acute injuries alone or may be due to an “acute-on-chronic injury,” meaning that the tendon has already experienced some level of pre-existing disease or degeneration, called tendinosis. Other risk factors such as diabetes, tobacco use, anabolic steroid use, and increased body mass index (BMI) may make some patients more prone to injury.

Symptoms of a Distal Biceps Tendon Tear

• Sudden, sharp pain in the front of the elbow or upper forearm
• Swelling and bruising in the elbow and forearm
• Weakness in bending the elbow (elbow flexion)
• Difficulty or inability to rotate the forearm (supination), such as when using a screwdriver
• A popping sound at the time of injury
• A visible bulge in the upper arm, known as the "Popeye deformity"
• Tenderness at the site of the tendon tear

If left untreated, distal biceps tendon tears can result in permanent weakness, making it difficult to perform daily tasks involving arm rotation or lifting.

Surgical Repair of Distal Biceps Tendon Tears

While partial tears can sometimes be managed with conservative treatment (rest, physical therapy, and bracing), surgery is the recommended treatment for complete ruptures.

When is Surgery Recommended?

• When there is a complete tear of the distal biceps tendon
• In cases where arm strength and function are significantly affected
• For active individuals or those who need to restore their full range of motion and lifting capacity

The Surgical Procedure

The goal of the surgery is to reattach the torn tendon to the bone to restore arm function. Our expert orthopedic surgeons at DRHC Dubai use the following methods for repair:

1. Single Incision Technique: A single incision is made at the front of the elbow, and the tendon is reattached to the radial bone using anchors or sutures.
2. Double Incision Technique: Two smaller incisions are made to minimize tissue damage. The tendon is then anchored to the bone through these incisions.

Both techniques aim to restore strength and function, with a focus on minimizing post-surgical complications.

Recovery After Surgery

• Immobilization: The arm is placed in a sling or brace to protect the repair during the initial healing phase (1-2 weeks).
• Physical Therapy: Guided exercises begin after immobilization to regain strength and restore range of motion.
• Full Recovery: It usually takes 3 to 6 months to regain full strength and return to normal activities, including sports or heavy lifting.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai for Distal Biceps Tendon Repair?

At DRHC Dubai, our experienced orthopedic team ensures patients receive personalized treatment and support throughout their recovery journey. We use advanced minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, reducing downtime and promoting faster healing.

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Dubai Elbow Clinic at DRHC provides orthopedic treatment for Distal Biceps Tendon Tear, golfers elbow, elbow fracture, elbow surgery, elbow arthroscopy, and so on. DRHC offers the best elbow fracture treatment in Dubai. Call +97142798200 to Schedule Your Appointment Today.