Distal Biceps Tendon Tears: Diagnosis and Treatment Algorithm

Abstract

Distal biceps tendon (DBT) tears occur most commonly in middle-Aged men after a sudden, forced eccentric contraction of the flexed elbow. An understanding of the multiple risk factors, mechanisms, and pathophysiological causes is essential for proper and timely diagnosis. High clinical suspicion and routine physical examination with appropriate special examination tests, including the hook test, the passive forearm pronation test, the biceps crease interval test, and the bicipital aponeurosis flex test, can help with rapid and accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate and timely management. Treatment for DBT tears depends on the extent (complete versus incomplete) and timing (acute versus chronic) of the injury, and options include nonoperative management, repair, and reconstruction with or without repair of the bicipital aponeurosis.