Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture: A Rare Condition with Difficult Treatment.

ABSTRACT

We report a case of 59-year-old male who experienced sharp pain in his arm and elbow after lifting a heavy object. History and physical examination raised suspicion for biceps rupture. Magnetic resonance imaging determined chronic tear of superfi cial fi bers of the long head of biceps in the distal arm. Surgical repair was performed for this tear by excising ruptured long head of biceps. Traumatic rupture of the biceps tendon is rare. When rupture does occur, it usually involves the long head of the proximal insertion. Rupture of the proximal biceps tendon occurs in 90-97% of all biceps ruptures and almost exclusively involves the long head. Distal biceps tendon rupture only occurs in about 3% of all biceps tendon injuries. Th e outcome was reasonably well with this rare injury pattern and even after excision of biceps 80% of his premorbid function was restored. He has good strength and is able to participate fully in his work.