What is a Biceps Tenodesis?
A biceps tenodesis is an operation that takes the tendon of the biceps muscle, removes it from where it usually attaches at the shoulder joint, and reattaches it on the arm bone (humerus).
A tendon is a thick band of fibres that attaches muscle to bone. The tendon of the biceps muscles can become irritated and inflamed near where it attaches at the shoulder joint. This is called biceps tendonitis. Treatment for this condition is usually conservative initially, with exercises and lifestyle modification. If these measures fail to improve the symptoms, surgery is considered. A Biceps tenodesis is one potential surgical option for this condition.
Who is this operation for?
This operation is for certain people who suffer from biceps tendonitis. Specifically, it is for people with this condition who have:
- A significant tear in their biceps tendon
- Anatomical variation in their arm bone that reduces stability of the tendon
- Failure of other treatment/surgery
Complications
The risks and complications of a Biceps Tenodesis include:
For more information on the potential complications of any surgery, see Complications of Surgery.
Before the operation
Preadmission Clinic | Preparing for Surgery
Before your operation, you will be seen at the Preadmission clinic to make sure you are fit for the operation and all the necessary tests are performed in preparation for the operation.
During the visit, you will be seen by a
- Doctor
- Nurse
- Anaesthetist (if necessary)
In some cases, a specialised assessment for anaesthesia is required.
Tests
Tests that may be ordered for you include:
- shoulder X-Ray
- shoulder MRI
- shoulder CT
- shoulder USS
- blood tests
- Xray of your Chest
- Urine Test
- ECG
Preparing Your Skin
Your skin should not have any infections or irritations before surgery. If either is present, contact your orthopaedic surgeon for a program to improve your skin before surgery.
Tip
Carry a list of your medications with you including the name, dosage and how often you take it.
Medications
Our doctors will advise you which medications you should stop or can continue taking before surgery.
About the Operation
After the Operation
After the operation, you are cared for in the Theatre Recovery room. You will usually only spend 1-2 hours in the recovery room.
Most people wake up fully when back in their rooms on the ward. Whilst on the ward, the nurses will take care of your every need. It usually takes a few hours to recover fully from the anaesthetic, and the nurse with regularly check on your recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Anaesthesia, local, post-operative pain-relief, GA,
F.A.Q.s | Frequently Asked Questions
What are the alternative treatments to having a Biceps Tenodesis?
Are there important things I need to tell my doctors?
- Redness, swelling or warmth around the cut
- Leakage from the cut
- Fever and chills.
- Severe pain that is not relieved by prescribed painkillers.
- Loss of control over arm movement
- Loss of arm movement
- Further surgery planned for the future i.e. dental work, bladder catheterisation, examinations of the bowel, bladder, rectum or stomach.