Title: Biceps rupture

Category: Orthopedics

Keywords: biceps, tendon, rupture (PubMed Search)

Posted: 12/24/2011 by Brian Corwell, MD

The long head of the biceps originates from the glenoid tubercle and superior labrum. 

Rupture of the proximal biceps tendon comprises 90-97% of all biceps ruptures

Often in men aged 40-60y

     - Almost exclusively involves the long head.

     - Aka "Popeye Arm" (distal contraction of the muscle belly)

-          May be acutely traumatic or microtears & age associated degeneration

-          Minimal loss of function because short head of biceps remains attached

-          Many patients can be treated non operatively

-          Most asymptomatic after 4-6 weeks

-          Place in sling, ice, analgesia

-          Refer to ortho for re-evaluation and determination of operative versus conservative management

http://imaging.birjournals.org/content/15/4/193/F7.large.jpg