Arthroscopic Bicep Repair

If you’ve experienced a bicep tear at the shoulder, and if conservative treatment measures have not relieved your shoulder pain or other symptoms, you may require a bicep repair procedure.

The good news is that the procedure to repair a bicep tendon tear is a minimally invasive arthroscopic shoulder surgery, which means it is performed on an outpatient basis, and you can go home the same day as your surgery. In addition, it requires only the tiniest of incisions, so you experience less post-op pain and scarring, as well as a faster recovery period.

What Is Bicep Repair Surgery?

Biceps tenodesis is the name for the procedure in which the upper bicep tendon is repaired surgically. The goal of this surgery is to re-anchor the tendon to the bone from which it has become detached. This typically means releasing the damaged tendon then affixing it to your upper arm bone (humerus), which allows it to heal while being held securely in place. Doing so will help to restore strength, endurance, and range of motion in the affected arm.

It is not uncommon for other shoulder injuries to occur along with a bicep tear. This includes rotator cuff tears, SLAP tears, impingement, tendonitis, and more.

When Is Bicep Repair Recommended?

You may be recommended for a bicep repair procedure if:

  • Conservative therapies (corticosteroid injections, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy) have not relieved your symptoms
  • You are a young athlete or your livelihood requires repetitive use of the biceps
  • Other shoulder conditions exist that require surgery – so this repair can be done at the same time
  • You don’t want to live with a “Popeye deformity” while the tendon heals on its own

Generally speaking, the earlier surgical treatment is obtained, the better the outcome.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From Bicep Repair Surgery?

The length of your post-op recovery will depend on the extent of your biceps tendon tear, as well as whether other shoulder conditions were repaired at the same time. Your overall health plays a factor, as does your commitment to your rehabilitation regimen. It may be a few months before you are able to resume your usual activities.

For a month or so after surgery, you will be required to wear a sling or other restrictive device that immobilizes the area, giving it adequate time to heal.

Physical therapy will be needed to restore your arm strength, flexibility, and range of motion. For athletes undergoing the procedure, the latter phases of rehab will be tailored to their specific sport or activity.

Most patients regain complete range of motion after an arthroscopic bicep repair.

Bicep Repair Surgeon in Knoxville and Athens, TN

Have you been told you need a bicep repair? You’ve come to the right place! Dr. David Hovis at The Shoulder Institute at ORTHOKnox is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the treatment of shoulder injuries, such as a bicep repair.