Name of the Procedure:

Tenodesis of long tendon of biceps
Common names: Biceps tenodesis

Summary

Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure where the long tendon of the biceps muscle is reattached to a different location on the shoulder or upper arm. This helps alleviate pain and improve function in patients with certain shoulder issues.

Purpose

Biceps tenodesis addresses problems related to biceps tendonitis, partial tendon tears, or instability. The procedure aims to relieve pain and restore normal shoulder function.

Indications

• Persistent shoulder pain not responsive to conservative treatments.
• Biceps tendonitis.
• Partial tears of the biceps tendon.
• Biceps tendon instability.
• SLAP (superior labrum from anterior to posterior) tears.

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 8 hours before surgery.
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the surgeon (e.g., blood thinners).
• Pre-operative imaging (MRI, X-Rays) may be required.
• Physical examination and medical history review.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given anesthesia (general or regional).
2. A small incision is made in the shoulder or upper arm.
3. The surgeon locates the long tendon of the biceps.
4. The tendon is detached from its original attachment point.
5. It is then securely reattached to a new location, usually on the humerus (upper arm bone).
6. The incision is closed with sutures or staples.
7. A sterile bandage is applied.

Tools and equipment include surgical sutures, anchors, and arthroscopy instruments. Anesthesia will be administered by an anesthesiologist.

Duration

Typically, the procedure lasts between 1 to 1.5 hours.

Setting

Biceps tenodesis is usually performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon.
• Anesthesiologist.
• Surgical nurses.
• Surgical assistants.

Risks and Complications

• Infection.
• Bleeding.
• Nerve damage.
• Stiffness or decreased range of motion.
• Re-rupture or failure of the tendon repair.
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Benefits

Patients can expect reduced shoulder pain and improved arm function. Benefits are often noticed within a few weeks to months post-surgery.

Recovery

• Immobilization of the arm in a sling for a few weeks.
• Gradual return to normal activities and physical therapy.
• Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several months.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments (physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications).
• Arthroscopic debridement.
• Corticosteroid injections.

Each alternative has its own set of pros and cons, such as less invasiveness or varying efficacy rates.

Patient Experience

Patients will be under anesthesia during the procedure and won't feel pain. Post-operative pain can be managed through medications. Discomfort and swelling are common initially, but these typically subside with proper care and physical therapy.