Long head of biceps tenodesis at the superior aspect of the biceps groove: A biomechanical comparison of inlay and onlay techniques

Abstract

Purpose: Pathology involving the long head of the biceps tendon is a common source of shoulder pain. Biceps tenodesis has been successfully used in areas below the pectoralis, above the pectoralis, and above the biceps groove. However, clinical data are lacking for additional techniques for tenodesis at the superior aspect of the biceps groove. Methods: A biomechanical comparison was completed examining six matched pairs of cadaveric shoulders. The ultimate load to failure was compared between an inlay and onlay biceps tenodesis at the superior aspect of the biceps groove. Results: The results demonstrate an average construct strength of 215 N for the inlay technique and 210 N for the onlay technique. The difference between the two techniques was not significant. Conclusions: This study demonstrates similar biomechanical strength for both constructs.