Summary

LPB tendon tenotomy does not impair the functional results of arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears. Apart from the aesthetic risk, anterior pain is rare and supine strength is preserved

Abstract

Lesions of the long biceps are frequently associated with rotator cuff tears and can become a cause of functional
impotence, the resection of the LPB seems to find its place in the therapeutic arsenal. Arthroscopic tenotomy of the
LPB finds its justification above all in the suppression of the inflammatory and degenerative process resulting from
the subacromial impingement.
While the indolence caused by the spontaneous rupture of LPB is a known concept, the clinical and functional
impact of its long-term tenotomy

Methods

We took as a reference a group of 20patients, whose average age varies between 40 and 65, presenting with a
rupture of the tendons of the cuff.
The intervention was performed arthroscopically, in a semi-sitting position
Endo-articular exploration confirmed rotator cuff tear and extent in 90%of cases. Tenotomy of the LPB was
performed in the rotator interval under arthroscopic guidance.
Patients had upper limb immobilization for 4 weeks followed by prolonged physiotherapy

Results

The evaluation of the results was based on clinical and radiographic data with an average follow-up of 3years.
90% of patients were satisfied with the functional result with improvement in pain and difference in muscle
strength of less than 20%.The evaluation with the Quick Dash Score noted an improvement of 18%at one year
postoperatively compared to the preoperative scores

Conclusion

LPB tendon tenotomy does not impair the functional results of arthroscopic repair of rotator cuff tears. Apart from
the aesthetic risk, anterior pain is rare and supine strength is preserved