Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique commonly used to diagnose and treat joint problems. One of the procedures it can assist with is biceps tendon repair. This guide aims to provide patients with essential information about arthroscopy for biceps tendon repair, including its benefits, procedure details, recovery expectations, and potential complications.

What Is Biceps Tendon Injury?

The biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle in the upper arm to the shoulder and elbow. Injuries can occur due to overuse, trauma, or associated conditions like tendonitis. Symptoms often include pain, weakness, and limited range of motion. In cases that do not respond well to conservative treatments such as rest and physical therapy, arthroscopic repair may be necessary.

Benefits of Arthroscopic Biceps Tendon Repair

Arthroscopy offers several advantages over traditional open surgery:

• Less Invasive: Smaller incisions lead to reduced tissue damage and faster recovery.
• Reduced Pain: Patients typically experience less postoperative pain due to the minimally invasive approach.
• Faster Recovery: Many patients return to their normal activities quicker than they would with open surgery.
• Improved Mobility: The procedure allows surgeons to enhance joint mobility while repairing the tendon.

Understanding the Arthroscopic Procedure

The biceps tendon repair procedure typically follows these steps:

1. Anesthesia: Patients are given either general or regional anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
2. Incisions: Small incisions (usually 1-2 cm) are made around the shoulder area.
3. Inserting the Arthroscope: An arthroscope—a small camera—is inserted through one incision, allowing the surgeon to view the tendon and surrounding structures on a monitor.
4. Repairing the Tendon: The surgeon uses specialized instruments to repair the torn or damaged tendon and may reattach it to the bone if needed.
5. Closing the Incisions: The incisions are closed using sutures or adhesive strips.

Recovery Process

The recovery timeline after arthroscopic biceps tendon repair can vary based on individual cases and surgical complexity. Generally, the following phases are expected:

• Initial Phase (1-2 Weeks): Resting and protecting the shoulder joint is crucial. Patients may wear a sling to immobilize the arm.
• Physical Therapy (Weeks 2-6): Gradual introduction of physical therapy helps regain mobility and strength, with specific exercises prescribed by the therapist.
• Return to Activities (Months 3-6): Light activities may resume after about 3 months, while full recovery and return to sports or heavy lifting may take 6 months or longer, depending on the individual’s healing process.

Potential Complications

Although arthroscopy for biceps tendon repair is generally safe, like all surgeries, it carries some risks:

• Infection: The risk of infection is present, as with any surgical procedure.
• Stiffness: Some patients may experience stiffness in the shoulder after the procedure.
• Nerve Injury: Rarely, nerve damage could occur during surgery, leading to numbness or weakness.
• Tendon Re-rupture: There’s a possibility that the repaired tendon may re-rupture if proper precautions are not taken during recovery.

Final Thoughts

Arthroscopy for biceps tendon repair can significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from biceps tendon injuries. Understanding the procedure, its benefits, and the recovery process can help set realistic expectations. Always consult with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss individual conditions, potential risks, and overall outcomes based on your particular situation.

If you have any questions about the arthroscopic biceps tendon repair process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.