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Rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps muscles of the shoulder: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Alexey Portnov, medical expert
Last reviewed: 19.11.2021

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Distinguish between tendon ruptures during (more often at the level of the transition to the muscular abdomen) and detachments from the fixation site, often with a small bone plate.

ICD-10 code

S46.1. Injury of the muscle and tendon of the long head of the biceps.

Epidemiology of the tendon rupture of the long head of the biceps arm

Almost always happens in men.

trusted-source [1], [2], [3], [4]

What causes tendon damage?

Subcutaneous injuries of tendons occur as a result of sudden overstrain or impact on the stressed tendon.

What causes a rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps?

The rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps arm muscle occurs when the weight rises or the violent extension of the arm bent at the elbow joint is abrupt.

Symptoms of tendon rupture of the long head of the biceps brachii

Anamnesis

Sharp pain, sometimes crunching at the time of injury.

Examination and physical examination

The strength of the hand to flex the forearm sharply decreases. The active tension of the biceps muscle is moderately painful, the lack of tonus and sinking in its upper part is revealed. The abdomen of the muscle bulges under the skin of the lower third of the shoulder. Flexion and supination of the forearm are weakened. Research should be done comparing with a healthy side.

Treatment of a rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps arm

Surgical treatment of tendon rupture of the long head of the biceps arm

For people of working age in an inpatient setting, surgical treatment is prescribed-the distal end of the severed tendon is transossally fixed in the zone of the intercampoon furrow or somewhat lower. The limb is immobilized with a gypsum thoracobrachial bandage for 5-6 weeks.

Estimated period of incapacity for work

The ability to work is restored in 6-10 weeks.

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