What is a long head biceps tenotomy?

In a ‘biceps tenotomy’ procedure the long head of biceps tendon is released from it’s attachment in the shoulder joint, allowing it to fall down into the upper arm and out of the shoulder joint. This removes the damaged, inflamed tissue by releasing it from the joint.

How long does it take to recover from biceps tenotomy?

It can take up to four to six months to recover from biceps tenodesis surgery.

When are biceps tenotomy performed?

Both biceps tenodesis and tenotomy are done in response to tendon tears, injury or inflammation—usually of the long head’s tendon. One of these procedures may also be performed when treating a superior labral anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesion or tear.

Can you lift weights after bicep tenotomy?

Monitor incisions and keep them clean as your surgeon suggests. Make sure not to do any lifting as this could damage the surgical site and repair. Also, do not massage the area, even if it feels itchy or irritated.

Is biceps tenotomy painful?

Biceps pain as a result of spasms and cramping is a potential downside of tenotomy. Cramping and cramp-like arm pain have been reported in anywhere from 8% to 40% of patients undergoing biceps tenotomy. However, studies have shown similar rates of cramping when comparing tenotomy versus tenodesis.

Why is a biceps tenotomy performed?

A biceps tenotomy is typically done when there is significant chronic long head of the biceps dysfunction or for definitive treatment of labral pathology with biceps anchor instability or for pain relief with irreparable massive rotator cuff tears.

How long is recovery after bicep tendon surgery?

How long does it take to recover from biceps tendon surgery? The objective of torn biceps surgery is to reattach the tendon to the bone. Full recovery from biceps tendon surgery can be anywhere from six months to a year.

Why do they cut the bicep tendon during rotator cuff surgery?

While it is controversial, many surgeons will cut the biceps tendon if it has damage and then implant it into the top of the humerus or arm bone: a procedure called biceps tenodesis. The rationale is that cutting the biceps eliminates a potential pain generator after surgery.