Biceps Tenodesis

Biceps Tenodesis Overview

A common cause of pain and tenderness located on the front of the shoulder is biceps tendonitis. The biceps tendon is located on the arm between the shoulder and elbow and is responsible for elbow flexion and the ability to rotate the forearm. Athletes involved in overhead sports, such as basketball and swimming, are at an elevated risk of developing this condition. If biceps tendonitis causes extreme pain and shoulder disability without a response to non-surgical measures, biceps tenodesis or subpectoral biceps tenodesis may be the recommended surgical procedures. Dr. Brian Waterman is extremely well-trained and experienced at treating patients with severe shoulder pain and loss of function from biceps tendonitis.

Two muscle “bellies” compose the biceps, the long head of the biceps and the short head of the biceps. The long head of the biceps actually enters the shoulder joint and attaches to the top of the socket (glenoid). As a result, it must slide back and forth through a thin groove in the front of the shoulder during shoulder motion, which places the tendon at risk for inflammation or tearing. The long head of the biceps is more commonly injured as a result of wear and tear, leading to inflammation and pain, although ruptures can occur due to trauma. Biceps tendonitis is caused by overuse, microtrauma from repetitive movements and degenerative changes in the shoulder.

Dr. Waterman may perform a biceps tenodesis or subpectoral biceps tenodesis if conservative measures such as the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) method, physical therapy, injections and anti-inflammatory medications do not alleviate the pain.