Subpectoral biceps tenodesis for bicipital tendonitis with SLAP tear

High Rate of Return to Sporting Activity Among Overhead Athletes With Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis for Type II SLAP Tear

PURPOSE

To evaluate the functional and athletic outcomes after primary subpectoral biceps tenodesis for type II SLAP tear in overhead athletes.

METHODS

All competitive elite athletes with type II SLAP tears undergoing biceps tenodesis by a single surgeon were isolated between 2007 and 2015. Exclusion criteria were applied to individuals not involved in overhead athletics, clinical follow-up <24 months, adjacent rotator cuff or labral repair, concomitant SLAP repair, and/or previous arthroscopic shoulder surgery. Patient-reported outcome measures included visual analog scale (VAS), Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic shoulder score, and Single Assessment Numerical Assessment. Clinical and sporting outcomes were recorded using a sports-specific questionnaire.

RESULTS

Of 22 identified patients, 16 competitive overhead athletes (72.7%; 11 men, 5 women) with a mean age of 21.0 years were available at mean 4.5-year follow-up. Baseball or softball comprised the majority of patients (n = 9; 56.3%), followed by gymnastics (n = 2), swimming (n = 2), and other sports (n = 3). At mean 4.1 months postoperatively, 13 patients (81.3%) returned to previous level of athletic activity, whereas 2 patients (12.5%) failed to return to sporting activity and 1 (6.3%) returned at a lower level of competition. VAS pain significantly decreased from an average of 4.4 preoperatively to 1.7 postoperatively (P = .002), and mean Single Assessment Numerical Assessment scores also demonstrated significant improvement (55.4-76.7; P = .008). Final mean Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score was 74.0 (standard deviation 25.9), including 2 patients with suboptimal outcomes due to persistent pain. There were no significant differences in mean forward flexion or rotation in either the adducted or throwing position (P > .05), although small, significant decreases in postoperative active abduction were noted (165° vs 155°; P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

In the current series of competitive overhead athletes, 81% of patients returned to previous level of play at an average of 4.1 months postoperatively after subpectoral biceps tenodesis for symptomatic SLAP tear. Athletes reliably experienced significant decreased activity-related pain with athletic function.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV, case series.

Biceps Tenodesis Versus Superior Labral Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) Lesion Repair for the Treatment of SLAP Lesion in Overhead Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Superior labral anterior and posterior (SLAP) lesions are common injuries in overhead athletes. As a surgical treatment for SLAP lesions, SLAP repair has been traditionally performed. Recently, biceps tenodesis has been performed as an alternative treatment option; however, there is no review for outcome comparisons between these 2 procedures in overhead athletes.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes of SLAP repair versus biceps tenodesis, especially in overhead athletes with SLAP lesions.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

An electronic literature search was performed in Medline, Embase, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. The studies were appraised using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) tool. Studies that had a minimum follow-up of 2 years, included only patients with SLAP lesions without other major shoulder pathologies, and included only patients who engaged in overhead sports were included. The functional outcomes of the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, rate of return to sport, rate of return to preinjury level of sport, and complication rate were subjected to meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 332 articles were identified, and 13 were included in the systematic review. Even though the postoperative ASES scores were slightly higher in the biceps tenodesis group than in the SLAP repair group, no statistically significant differences were found between the groups (biceps tenodesis, 95% CI = 91.71-96.75, I² = 0.00; SLAP repair, 95% CI = 85.47-94.46, I² = 16.3; P = .085) The rate of return to sport and the return to preinjury level of sport were slightly higher in the biceps tenodesis group than in the SLAP repair group; however, in meta-analysis these factors did not reach statistical significance (return to sport: biceps tenodesis, 95% CI = 0.66-0.91, I² = 0.00; SLAP repair, 95% CI = 0.68-0.93, I² = 70.23; P = .94) (return to preinjury level of sport: biceps tenodesis, 95% CI = 0.61-0.89, I² = 17.78; SLAP repair, 95% CI = 0.53-0.82, I² = 58.07; P = .37). The biceps tenodesis group showed a lower complication rate compared with the SLAP repair group without statistical significance (biceps tenodesis, 95% CI = 0.013-0.145, I² = 0.00; SLAP repair, 95% CI = 0.049-0.143, I² = 0.00; P = .25).

CONCLUSION

The results of biceps tenodesis, compared with SLAP repair, were not inferior in the surgical treatment of overhead athletes with SLAP lesions with regard to the ASES score, rate of return to sport, rate of return to preinjury level of sport, and complication rate. Further high-level, randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm this result.

Friedelin Alleviates the Pathogenesis of Collagenase-Induced Tendinopathy in Mice by Promoting the Selective Autophagic Degradation of p65

With the development of an aging population, tendinopathy has become a common musculoskeletal disease in the elderly with a high recurrence rate and no curative treatment. The inflammation mediated by NF-κB signaling plays an important role in tendon senescence and degeneration. Friedelin (FR) is a triterpenoid derived from green plants, which has a variety of pharmacological functions, such as analgesia, anti-inflammation, antioxidation, and anti-tumor functions. However, the role and mechanism of FR in tendinopathy are unclear. Here, we found that FR improved the mechanical strength of the Achilles tendon, restored the orderly arrangement of collagen fibers, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, and promoted tenogenesis, thereby blocking the progression of tendinopathy. Mechanistically, FR promoted the autophagic degradation of p65 by enhancing the interaction between p62 and p65 and effectively inhibited the activation of the NF-κB pathway, thus alleviating the inflammatory response of tenocytes. In addition, FR recruited E3 ubiquitin enzyme RNF182 to increase the K48-linked ubiquitination of p65 and promoted p62-mediated autophagic degradation. Furthermore, blocking ubiquitination reversed the degradation of p65 by FR. Therefore, these findings identify the new pharmacological mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effect of FR and provide a new candidate drug for the treatment of tendinopathy.

Anatomical, functional and biomechanical review of the glenoid labrum

The glenohumeral joint is the most mobile joint in the human skeleton, supported by both active and passive stabilisers. As one of the passive stabilisers, the glenoid labrum has increasingly been recognised to play an important role in stability of the glenohumeral joint, acting to maintain intraarticular pressure, centralise the humeral head and contribute to concavity-compression stability. Several studies have investigated the macro- and micro-anatomical features of the labrum as well as its biomechanical function. However, in order to better understand the role of the labrum and its mechanics, a comprehensive anatomical, functional and biomechanical review of these studies is needed. Therefore, this article reviews the current literature detailing anatomical descriptions of the glenoid labrum, with an emphasis on its function(s) and biomechanics, as well as its interaction with neighbouring structures. The intimate relationship between the labrum and the surrounding structures was found to be important in glenohumeral stability, which owes further investigation into the microanatomy of labrum to better understand this relationship.

Management of proximal biceps tendon pathology

The long head of the biceps tendon is widely recognized as an important pain generator, especially in anterior shoulder pain and dysfunction with athletes and working individuals. The purpose of this review is to provide a current understanding of the long head of the biceps tendon anatomy and its surrounding structures, function, and relevant clinical information such as evaluation, treatment options, and complications in hopes of helping orthopaedic surgeons counsel their patients. An understanding of the long head of the biceps tendon anatomy and its surrounding structures is helpful to determine normal function as well as pathologic injuries that stem proximally. The biceps-labral complex has been identified and broken down into different regions that can further enhance a physician’s knowledge of common anterior shoulder pain etiologies. Although various physical examination maneuvers exist meant to localize the anterior shoulder pain, the lack of specificity requires orthopaedic surgeons to rely on patient history, advanced imaging, and diagnostic injections in order to determine the patient’s next steps. Nonsurgical treatment options such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections should be utilized before entertaining surgical treatment options. If surgery is needed, the three options include biceps tenotomy, biceps tenodesis, or superior labrum anterior to posterior repair. Specifically for biceps tenodesis, recent studies have analyzed open vs arthroscopic techniques, the ideal location of tenodesis with intra-articular, suprapectoral, subpectoral, extra-articular top of groove, and extra-articular bottom of groove approaches, and the best method of fixation using interference screws, suture anchors, or cortical buttons. Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of the complications of each procedure and respond accordingly for each patient. Once treated, patients often have good to excellent clinical outcomes and low rates of complications.

The rate and reporting of fracture after biceps tenodesis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this systematic review was to (1) define the cumulative humerus fracture rate after BT and (2) compare how often fracture rate was reported compared to other complications.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using the PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

39 studies reported complications and 30 reported no complications. Of the 39 studies that reported complications, 5 studies reported fracture after BT (n = 669, cumulative incidence of 0.53%). The overall non-fracture complication rate was 12.9%.

DISCUSSION

Due to the relatively high incidence of fracture, surgeons should ensure that this complication is disclosed to patients undergoing BT.

Early Versus Delayed Active Range of Motion After Open Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis

Background

Little is known regarding the effect of early active elbow range of motion (ROM) protocols on failure rates and outcomes after open subpectoral biceps tenodesis.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that patients managed using an early active ROM protocol after open subpectoral biceps tenodesis would demonstrate similar failure rates and functional outcomes compared to patients managed using a traditional delayed active ROM protocol.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

We evaluated 63 patients who underwent open subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical suture button fixation. Based on surgeon preference, 22 patients were managed using an early active motion protocol consisting of no restrictions on elbow flexion or forearm supination, while 41 patients were managed using a delayed motion protocol postoperatively. Primary outcome measures included failure of biceps tenodesis and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores. Secondary outcomes included shoulder and elbow ROM at 6 months postoperatively.

Results

The mean follow-up for the 63 patients was 24.2 months postoperatively. One patient (2.4%) in the delayed active motion cohort and no patients in the early active motion cohort experienced failure. Final outcome scores as well as 6-month shoulder and elbow ROM indicated excellent functional outcomes, with no significant difference between motion cohorts. The median postoperative ASES scores were 97.99 in the early active motion cohort (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 95.49 ± 7.68) and 95.42 in the delayed motion cohort (mean ± SD, 90.93 ± 16.08), while median postoperative SANE scores were 96 in the early motion cohort (mean ± SD, 94.23 ± 6.68) and 95 in the delayed motion cohort (mean ± SD, 88.39 ± 17.98). Subgroup analysis demonstrated no significant difference in outcome scores based on the performance of concomitant rotator cuff repair or hand dominance.

Conclusion

Early active ROM after open subpectoral biceps tenodesis with unicortical suture button fixation resulted in low failure rates and excellent clinical outcomes, comparable to the results of patients managed using delayed active ROM protocols. This suggests that patients undergoing open subpectoral biceps tenodesis may be managed using either early or delayed active motion protocols without compromising functional outcome.

Surgical Management of Superior Labral Tears in Athletes: Focus on Biceps Tenodesis

Superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions are common in overhead athletes. Though some patients have asymptomatic lesions, many tears cause pain and diminished athletic performance. Accurate diagnosis of SLAP lesions can be challenging as the sensitivity and specificity of both the physical exam and advanced imaging is questionable. Management is also difficult, as treatment can be life-altering or career-ending for many athletes. If first-line nonoperative treatment fails, surgical options may be considered. The optimal surgical management of SLAP lesions in athletes is debated. Historically, return to play (RTP) rates among athletes who have undergone arthroscopic SLAP repair have been unsatisfactory, prompting clinicians to seek alternate surgical options. Biceps tenodesis (BT) has been postulated to eliminate biceps tendon-related pain in the shoulder and is increasingly used as a primary procedure for SLAP lesions. The purpose of this text is to review the current literature on the surgical management of SLAP lesions in athletes with an emphasis on the role of BT.

Biceps Tenodesis for Superior Labrum Anterior-Posterior Tear in the Overhead Athlete: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesion is a common shoulder injury, particularly in overhead athletes. While surgical management has traditionally consisted of SLAP repair, high rates of revision and complications have led to alternative techniques, such as biceps tenodesis (BT). While BT is commonly reserved for older nonoverhead athletes, indications for its use have expanded in recent years.

PURPOSE

To determine functional outcomes and return-to-sport rates among overhead athletes after BT for SLAP tear.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed for any articles published before July 2019. The search phrase "labral tear" was used to capture maximum results, followed by keyword inclusion of "SLAP tear" and "biceps tenodesis." Inclusion criteria included outcome studies of BT for isolated SLAP tear in athletes participating in any overhead sports, not limited to throwing alone. Abstracts and manuscripts were independently reviewed to determine eligibility. When clearly delineated, outcome variables from multiple studies were combined.

RESULTS

After full review, 8 articles met inclusion criteria (99 athletes; mean age, 19.8-47 years), with baseball and softball players the most common among them (n = 62). Type II SLAP tear was the most common diagnosis, and 0% to 44% of athletes had a failed previous SLAP repair before undergoing BT. Only 1 study included patients with concomitant rotator cuff repair. Open subpectoral BT was most commonly used, and complication rates ranged from 0% to 14%, with wound erythema, traumatic biceps tendon rupture, brachial plexus neurapraxia, and adhesive capsulitis being reported. Combined reported postoperative functional scores were as follows: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons, 81.7 to 97; 12-Item Short Form Health Survey physical, 50 to 54; visual analog scale for pain, 0.8-1.5; Kerlan Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, 66 to 79; and satisfaction, 80% to 87%. The overall return-to-sports rate for overhead athletes was 70% (60 of 86). For studies that clearly delineated outcomes based on level of play/athlete, the combined return-to-sports rate was 69% (11 of 16) for recreational overhead athletes, 80% (4 of 5) for competitive/collegiate athletes, and 60% (18 of 30) for professionals.

CONCLUSION

BT in the overhead athlete offers encouraging functional outcomes and return-to-sports rates, particularly in the recreational athlete. It can be successfully performed as an index operation rather than SLAP repair, as well as in a younger patient population. Careful consideration should be given to elite overhead athletes, particularly pitchers, who tend to experience poorer outcomes.

Arthroscopic Proximal Subpectoral Tenodesis of the Long Head of the Biceps

Biceps tenodesis is a common treatment method for biceps pathology. When tenodesis is located in intra-articular or suprapectoral areas, the biceps is fixed proximally to the zone of degeneration and inflammation, which can cause residual pain as a possible postsurgical complication. The main advantage of this method is that this technique is comparatively easy and can be performed arthroscopically. Typically, in terms of professional athletes, the best post-biceps tenodesis results are observed after undergoing subpectoral tenodesis because of the solid fixation and localization distally to any kind of biceps tendon degeneration and inflammation zone. However, subpectoral tenodesis has several disadvantages, as it is an open procedure that can lead to possible scar and hematoma formation, infection, bioabsorbable screw reaction, neurovascular injury, and fractures. Soft-tissue tenodesis to the proximal part of pectoralis major tendon is a well-known step in shoulder arthroplasty surgery and shows acceptable results. We suggest a technique of proximal subpectoral arthroscopic tenodesis, which combines the advantages of the location in the subpectoral zone with an all-suture anchor and that of soft-tissue tenodesis to the pectoralis major tendon, which can be performed fully arthroscopically, improving results in terms of healing by increasing the contact area.

Outcomes and Complications After Primary Arthroscopic Suprapectoral Versus Open Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis for Superior Labral Anterior-Posterior Tears or Biceps Abnormalities: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background:

Biceps tenodesis is a surgical treatment for both superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears and long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) abnormalities. Biceps tenodesis can be performed either above or below the pectoralis major tendon with arthroscopic or open techniques.

Purpose:

To analyze the outcomes and complications comparing primary arthroscopic suprapectoral versus open subpectoral biceps tenodesis for either SLAP tears or LHBT disorders.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A search strategy based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Meta-Analyses) protocol was used to include 18 articles (471 patients) from a total of 974 articles identified. Overall exclusion criteria included the following: non–English language, non–full text, biceps tenodesis with concomitant rotator cuff repair, review articles, meta-analyses, and case reports. Data were extracted and analyzed according to procedure type and tenodesis location: arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis (295 patients) versus open subpectoral bicepts tenodesis (176 patients).

Results:

For arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis, the weighted mean American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score was 90.0 (97 patients) and the weighted mean Constant score was 88.7 (108 patients); for open subpectoral biceps tenodesis, the mean ASES score was 91.1 (199 patients) and mean Constant score was 84.7 (65 patients). Among the 176 patients who underwent arthroscopic biceps tenodesis, there was an overall complication rate of 9.1%. Among the 295 patients who underwent open biceps tenodesis, there was an overall complication rate of 13.5%. Both residual pain (5.7% vs 4.7%, respectively) and Popeye deformity (1.7% vs 1.0%, respectively) rates were similar between the groups. Open subpectoral biceps tenodesis had higher reoperation (3.0% vs 0.0%, respectively), wound complication (1.0% vs 0.0%, respectively), and nerve injury (0.7% vs 0.0%, respectively) rates postoperatively. A meta-analysis of 3 studies demonstrated that both methods had similar ASES scores (P = .36) as well as all-cause complication rates (odds ratio, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.13-4.48]; P = .26).

Conclusion:

Patients undergoing arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis for either SLAP tears or LHBT abnormalities had similar outcome scores and complication rates compared with those undergoing open subpectoral biceps tenodesis. Additionally, both residual pain and Popeye deformity rates were similar between the 2 groups.

Superior Labral Anterior Posterior Repair and Biceps Tenodesis Surgery: Trends of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery Database

BACKGROUND

Recent evidence has specified indications for performing superior labral anterior posterior (SLAP) repair and biceps tenodesis (BT) for the treatment of bicipital-labral lesions in the shoulder. Trends in performance of these procedures are expected to reflect the growing body of research regarding this topic.

PURPOSE

To report practice trends for the surgical treatment of SLAP lesions utilizing the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS) database, particularly in older patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

The ABOS database was retrospectively queried between 2012 and 2017 by Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for SLAP repair (29807), open BT (23430), and arthroscopic BT (29828). The patient population was excluded if any concomitant open shoulder procedure was performed. Trends over time were evaluated with respect to case volume, patient age, surgeon subspecialty, and whether a concomitant arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) was performed (CPT 29827).

RESULTS

A total of 9908 cases met inclusion/exclusion criteria: 4632 performed with RCR and 5276 performed without. The mean age of patients without RCR was 40.8 ± 13.8 years, while for those receiving RCR it was 55.0 ± 9.9 years (P < .001). In patients without RCR, there was a significant decline in rate of SLAP repairs performed over this period (P < .001). A significantly greater proportion of patients receiving open and arthroscopic BT were older than 35 years of age, compared with those receiving SLAP repair (P < .001). Within the RCR cohort, there was also a significant decline in concomitant SLAP repairs performed (P < .001) over the study period. With respect to BT, open BT was performed more frequently in the cohort without RCR (74.5%) than in the cohort with RCR (52.1%) (P < .001). Similarly, arthroscopic BT was performed more commonly in the cohort with RCR (47.9%) than in the cohort without RCR (25.5%) (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The ABOS database revealed significantly reduced rates of SLAP repairs performed in recent times. Trends with age remained consistent over time, in that SLAP repairs were predominantly performed in younger patients. Open BT was performed more frequently overall, but with an increased proportion of arthroscopic BT occurring with RCR. Arthroscopic BT was performed much more frequently with RCR than without.

Editorial Commentary: Biceps Tenodesis Fixation: Screw, Button, or None of the Above?

Clinical outcomes following shoulder subpectoral biceps tenodesis are generally favorable, with a very low complication rate (2%). One of the most devastating complications following this procedure is the occurrence of a proximal humerus fracture. Although all constructs have their unique advantages and disadvantages, creating a smaller bone hole while achieving good biomechanical outcomes is worth considering. This may be most advantageous in overhead-throwing athletes, tennis players, and/or volleyball athletes, who subject their shoulders to more torsional load due to the requirements of their sport. Thus, in addition to screws and buttons, smaller-diameter suture anchors could also be thoughtfully considered as a biceps tenodesis fixation option.

Is arthroscopic repair superior to biceps tenotomy and tenodesis for type II SLAP lesions? A meta-analysis of RCTs and observational studies

Objective

Labral repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis are routine operations for type II superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) lesion of the shoulder, but evidence of their superiority is lacking. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic repair versus biceps tenotomy and tenodesis intervention.

Methods

The eight studies were acquired from PubMed, Medline, Embase, CNKI, and Cochrane Library. The data were extracted by two of the coauthors independently and were analyzed by RevMan 5.3. Mean differences (MDs), odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias Tool and Newcastle–Ottawa Scale were used to assess risk of bias.

Results

Eight studies including two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and six observational studies were assessed. The methodological quality of the trials ranged from low to moderate. The pooled results of UCLA score, SST score, and complications showed that the differences were not statistically significant between the two interventions. The difference of ASES score and satisfaction rate was statistically significant between arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis intervention, and arthroscopic biceps tenotomy and tenodesis treatment was more effective. Sensitivity analysis proved the stability of the pooled results, and there were too less included articles to verify the publication bias.

Conclusions

Both arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis interventions had benefits in type II SLAP lesions. Arthroscopic biceps tenotomy and tenodesis treatment provides better clinical outcome in ASES score and satisfaction rate and comparable complications compared with arthroscopic repair treatment. In view of the heterogeneity and confounding factors, whether these conclusions are applicable should be further determined in future studies.

Long Head of Biceps Injury: Treatment Options and Decision Making

The long head of the biceps brachii is a well-known "pain generator" in the shoulder. Biceps tendinitis, instability, and rupture encompass the majority of symptomatic lesions. Clinical diagnosis, particularly of biceps tendinitis, can be difficult, given the nonspecific physical examination findings. Treatment options are initially nonoperative, with surgical management reserved for specific presentations or refractory cases. In recent years, biceps tenodesis and tenotomy have become the mainstays of operative treatment. Management of biceps lesions must also involve consideration of other shoulder pathology, as they are often not an isolated finding. Although there remains debate on the best treatment options for long head of the biceps injuries, a review of current literature provides important principles that can help guide clinical decision making.

An Age and Activity Algorithm for Treatment of Type II SLAP Tears

Background

Type II SLAP tears predominantly occur in males between their third and fifth decades of life. The mechanism of injury is often repeated overheard activity but can also occur due to direct compression loads and traction injuries. The treatment options have changed over the years and include non-operative therapy, direct labral-biceps complex repair, and labral debridement with biceps tenodesis or tenotomy.

Objective

To review the existing literature on the management of Type II SLAP tears and provide clinical recommendations based on patient age and activity level.

Methods

A review of the existing literature through October 2017 investigating the management of Type II SLAP tears was performed. Emphasis was placed on distinguishing the outcomes based on age and activity level to provide an appropriate treatment algorithm.

Results

Patients with Type II SLAP tears should first be trialed with non-operative management and many patients will have a successful result with ability to return to their respective sports or activities. Surgical management should be considered if non-operative management does not provide symptomatic relief. Young, athletic, or high-demand patients should be treated with a SLAP repair while biceps tenodesis should be considered for older or worker's compensation patients. Patients undergoing revision surgery for a failed SLAP repair should be managed with biceps tenodesis.

Conclusion

Type II SLAP tears remain a difficult pathology to manage clinically, but the treatment indications are narrowing. The age and activity algorithm described in this review provides an effective method of managing this complex clinical condition.

Treatment for Symptomatic SLAP Tears in Middle-Aged Patients Comparing Repair, Biceps Tenodesis, and Nonoperative Approaches: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of nonoperative management, primary SLAP repair, and primary biceps tenodesis for the treatment of symptomatic isolated type II SLAP tear.

METHODS

A microsimulation Markov model was constructed to compare 3 strategies for middle-aged patients with symptomatic type II SLAP tears: SLAP repair, biceps tenodesis, or nonoperative management. A failed 6-month trial of nonoperative treatment was assumed. The principal outcome measure was the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio in 2017 U.S. dollars using a societal perspective over a 10-year time horizon. Treatment effectiveness was expressed in quality-adjusted life-years (QALY). Model results were compared with estimates from the published literature and were subjected to sensitivity analyses to evaluate robustness.

RESULTS

Primary biceps tenodesis compared with SLAP repair conferred an increased effectiveness of 0.06 QALY with cost savings of $1,766. Compared with nonoperative treatment, both biceps tenodesis and SLAP repair were cost-effective (incremental cost-effectiveness ratio values of $3,344/QALY gained and $4,289/QALY gained, respectively). Sensitivity analysis showed that biceps tenodesis was the preferred strategy in most simulations (52%); however, for SLAP repair to become cost-effective over biceps tenodesis, its probability of failure would have to be lower than 2.7% or the cost of biceps tenodesis would have to be higher than $14,644.

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with primary SLAP repair and nonoperative treatment, primary biceps tenodesis is the most cost-effective treatment strategy for type II SLAP tears in middle-aged patients. Primary biceps tenodesis offers increased effectiveness when compared with both primary SLAP repair and nonoperative treatment and lower costs than primary SLAP repair.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, economic decision analysis.

Editorial Commentary: Pursuit of Value-Based Care for SLAP Lesions: More Work to Be Done

Type II SLAP tears are considered the most common type of SLAP lesions. However, the management of type II SLAP tears in middle-aged patients is challenging because recent evidence suggests that there is a high prevalence of type II SLAP lesions in the asymptomatic middle-aged shoulder. Treatment options for type II SLAP lesions in middle-aged patients may include biceps tenodesis, SLAP repair, or nonoperative treatment. Value-based research suggests that biceps tenodesis is the preferred cost-effective treatment modality in middle-aged patients. However, the treatment of type II SLAP lesions in younger patients is more nuanced, and isolated type II SLAP lesions in middle-aged patients are a rare, frequently misdiagnosed, and overtreated entity. As such, more work is needed to better understand the health economics of SLAP treatment across different age groups and activity levels.

Radiologic and Histologic Evaluation of Proximal Bicep Pathology in Patients With Chronic Biceps Tendinopathy Undergoing Open Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis

PURPOSE

To correlate preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and intraoperative anatomic findings within the proximal long head biceps tendon to histologic evaluation of 3 separate zones of the tendon in patients with chronic biceps tendinopathy.

METHODS

Sixteen patients with chronic biceps tendinopathy were treated with open subpectoral biceps tenodesis. Preoperative MRI tendon grading was as follows: normal tendon, increased signal, tendon splitting, incomplete/complete tear. The removed portion of the biceps tendon was split into 3 segments: zone 1, 0-3.5 cm from the labral insertion; zone 2, 3.5-6.5 cm; and zone 3, 6.5-9 cm, and was histologically evaluated using the Bonar score. Tenosynovium adjacent to the tendon was assessed histologically using the Osteoarthritis Research Society International score. CD31, CD3, and CD79a immunohistochemistries were conducted to determine vascularization, T-cell infiltrates, and B-cell infiltrates, respectively. Analysis of variance and Pearson correlations were performed for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Preoperative MRI showed no significant differences in tendon appearance between zones 1-3. Intraoperative findings included nonspecific degenerative SLAP tears or mild/moderate biceps tenosynovitis in all cases. Significantly (P < .001) higher Bonar scores were noted for tendon in zones 1 (7.9 ± 1.8) and 2 (7.3 ± 1.5) compared with zone 3 (5.0 ± 1.1). Cell morphology scores in zone 1 (1.9 ± 0.4) and zone 2 (1.5 ± 0.6) were significantly higher than that in zone 3 (0.8 ± 0.3) (P < .05). Inflammatory tenosynovium showed weak correlation with tendon changes in zone 1 (r = 0.08), zone 2 (r = 0.03), or zone 3 (r = 0.1).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with chronic long head biceps tendinopathy who underwent open subpectoral tenodesis, MRI and intraoperative assessment did not show significant structural abnormalities within the tendon despite significant histopathologic changes. Severity of tendon histopathology was more pronounced in the proximal and mid-portions of the tendon.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Proximal versus distal biceps tenodesis is a subject of frequent debate. This study contributes to the ongoing evaluation of the characteristics of the proximal biceps in this type of pathologic condition.

Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis With PEEK Interference Screw: A Biomechanical Analysis of Humeral Fracture Risk

PURPOSE

To quantify the torsional load to fracture for subpectoral biceps tenodesis with interference screw fixation.

METHODS

We randomized 28 specimens from 14 matched-pair full-length humeri (mean age, 55.3 years) into 3 groups: (1) empty ream group (ERG), (2) screw-only group (SOG), and (3) screw-plus-biceps tendon group (SBG). In each group, 1 humerus of each matched pair was prepared according to group allocation and the contralateral humerus remained intact as a control. In the ERG, an 8-mm unicortical hole was reamed 1 cm proximal to the inferior border of the pectoralis major tendon insertion; in the SOG, the humerus was filled with an 8-mm × 12-mm PEEK (polyether ether ketone) screw; and in the SBG, the humerus was filled with a PEEK screw and the cadaveric long head of the biceps tendon. Humeri were tested under torsional displacement at a rate of 1°/s until fracture. Maximum torque, energy to maximum torque, and linear stiffness were used to assess humerus strength.

RESULTS

Compared with contralateral intact specimens, the maximum torque to fracture was reduced by 28% in the ERG (P = .005), 30% in the SOG (P = .014), and 20% in the SBG (P = .046). Energy to maximum torque was similarly reduced in the ERG (P = .007), SOG (P = .023), and SBG (P = .049). Stiffness was increased by 4% in the ERG (P = .498), 9% in the SOG (P = .030), and 4% in the SBG (P = .439).

CONCLUSIONS

Drilling an 8-mm unicortical hole in zone 3 of the bicipital tunnel for open subpectoral biceps tenodesis reduces the torsional load to humeral fracture up to 28% at time 0. The addition of a PEEK tenodesis screw alone reduced the maximum torque by 30%, and the addition of a screw with the long head of the biceps tendon reduced the maximum torque by 20%. The total load to fracture was reduced in all settings. Stiffness was not significantly different for the ERG and SBG, but stiffness was significantly higher for the SOG compared with the intact matched humeri at time 0.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

When performing a biceps tenodesis, humeral fracture susceptibility is increased with an applied torsional load at time 0. Thus providers must be aware of this reduced integrity when a subpectoral biceps tenodesis is used.

Incidence and Return to Play After Biceps Tenodesis in Professional Baseball Players

PURPOSE

To determine return to play (RTP) rates after biceps tenodesis (BT) in professional baseball players.

METHODS

Major League Baseball has maintained a prospective database containing all major and minor league baseball players who have undergone shoulder surgery since 2010. All players who had undergone BT were included. Minimum follow-up was 24 months, and thus we included data from 2010 to 2013. Using this database we determined the incidence, demographics, prior surgery history, concomitant procedures, RTP rates, and time to RTP.

RESULTS

Between 2010 and 2013, 17 professional baseball players underwent BT. Seventy-one percent of the 17 were pitchers, and 29% of the 17 were in the major league. Forty-seven percent of the 17 had a history of a prior shoulder surgery and 47% of the 17 underwent concomitant labral repair. For all players, RTP after BT was 35%, whereas RTP after BT without a concomitant reconstructive procedure was 44% in 10 ± 6 months, and 25% for those who underwent both BT and a concomitant reconstructive procedure (P = .620). All players who RTP were able to return to at least 20 games at their preoperative level of play. Return to professional play was 80% among position players and 17% among pitchers (P = .028). For those pitchers who RTP, performance was not statistically changed.

CONCLUSIONS

Professional baseball players who undergo BT have a 35% rate of return to their prior level of play. Whereas pitchers have only a 17% rate of RTP, position players have an 80% rate of RTP. Of those who returned, all returned to their prior level of play. The pitchers who returned had no significant change in performance statistics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic study, a case series.

Clinical and sonographic evaluation of subpectoral biceps tenodesis with a dual suture anchor technique demonstrates improved outcomes and a low failure rate at a minimum 2-year follow-up

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and integrity of an open subpectoral biceps tenodesis using a dual suture anchor construct.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with at least 2 years of follow-up were retrospectively evaluated for simple shoulder test (SST), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and visual analog scales (VAS) for pain, function and satisfaction. A physical exam assessed shoulder range of motion and elbow strength. Ultrasonography visualized construct integrity.

RESULTS

Of 43 eligible patients, 36 completed questionnaire evaluation and 22 completed an additional physical examination. Indications included superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions (4), partial thickness tears (6), instability (6), and tenosynovitis of the biceps tendon (20). Eighteen patients (50%) had an associated rotator cuff tear. Patient-reported outcomes improved pre- vs postoperatively: ASES score (45.4 vs 78.6, P < 0.001), SST (5.1 vs 9.6, P < 0.001), pain-VAS (4.8 vs 2.0, P < 0.001), and function-VAS (4.9 vs 2.3, P < 0.001). Satisfaction-VAS was 8.3 postoperatively. Patient-reported outcomes did not differ for patients with an associated rotator cuff tear compared to those without (P ≥ 0.427). None of the physical exam measures were lower on the operative side compared to the healthy side (P ≥ 0.516). Sonographic evaluation revealed preserved integrity of the tenodesis construct in all cases. No complications were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Subpectoral biceps tenodesis utilizing a dual suture anchor technique is a treatment option for SLAP lesions, partial thickness tears, subluxation, and tenosynovitis of the long head of the biceps with high rates of postoperative patient satisfaction, a low failure rate, and improved outcome scores. The presence of a concomitant rotator cuff tear did not influence clinical outcomes.

The Effect of Concomitant Biceps Tenodesis on Reoperation Rates After Rotator Cuff Repair: A Review of a Large Private-Payer Database From 2007 to 2014

PURPOSE

To determine if reoperation rates are higher for patients who underwent isolated rotator cuff repair (RCR) than those who underwent RCR with concomitant biceps tenodesis using a large private-payer database.

METHODS

A national insurance database was queried for patients who underwent arthroscopic RCR between the years 2007 and 2014 (PearlDiver, Warsaw, IN). The Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) 29,827 (arthroscopy, shoulder, surgical; with RCR) identified RCR patients who were subdivided into 3 groups-group 1: RCR without biceps tenodesis; group 2: RCR with concomitant arthroscopic biceps tenodesis (CPT 29827 and 29,828); group 3: RCR with concomitant open biceps tenodesis (CPT 29827 and 23,430). Reoperation rates (revision RCR, subsequent biceps surgeries) and complications at 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, and 1 year were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression was used to compare reoperations and complications between groups. Rotator cuff tear size, whether the biceps was ruptured and whether a biceps tenotomy was performed, was not available.

RESULTS

Group 1: 27,178 patients. Group 2: 4,810 patients. Group 3: 1,493 patients. More patients underwent concomitant arthroscopic than concomitant open tenodesis (P < .001). A total of 2,509 patients underwent a reoperation for RCR or biceps tenodesis within 1 year after RCR. When adjusted for age, sex, and comorbidities, no significant differences in reoperation rates at 30 days or 90 days among the 3 groups, but significantly more patients who had a tenodesis, required a reoperation compared with those who did not have a tenodesis at 6 months and 1 year (both P < .001). Urinary tract infections were more common in patients who did not have a tenodesis, whereas dislocation, nerve injury, and surgical site infection were more common in tenodesis patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher reoperation rates at 1 year were seen in patients who had concomitant biceps tenodesis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, case-control database review study.

Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis for Tenosynovitis of the Long Head of the Biceps in Active Patients Younger Than 45 Years Old

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to assess the outcomes after subpectoral biceps tenodesis (BT) for long head of the biceps (LHB) tenosynovitis in active patients <45 years old.

METHODS

This was an Institutional Review Board-approved, retrospective outcomes study with prospectively collected data. Patients treated with subpectoral BT were included if they met the following criteria: age <45 years, anterior shoulder pain with arthroscopically confirmed LHB tenosynovitis, no concomitant procedures other than debridement and decompression procedures, and minimum 2 years out from surgery. Patients were excluded from analysis if they refused participation. The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Short Form-12, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and pain scores as well as sports participation preoperatively and at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively were obtained. Pre- and postoperative scores were compared using paired samples t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

RESULTS

Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. Two of these patients refused to participate in follow-up and were excluded from analysis. Of the remaining 28 patients (17 male, 11 female; 37.0 ± 8.0 years), minimum 2-year outcomes were available for 24 (13 males, 11 females: 37.7 ± 8.2 years; 85.7%). Mean follow-up was 3.1 years (range, 2.0 to 7.3 years). There were significant improvements in all outcome measures including ASES score (P < .001), with a postoperative mean of 95.8 ± 7.8, visual analog scale "pain today" (P < .001), and pain affecting activities of daily living (P < .001). Seventeen of 20 (85%) patients who answered the question about postoperative sport participation were able to return to sport. Mean patient satisfaction was 9.2/10 (standard deviation, +1.7). There were no postoperative complications such as Popeye deformity or cramping. There were no clinical failures.

CONCLUSIONS

Subpectoral BT is an excellent treatment option for active patients <45 years old with LHB tenosynovitis and chronic anterior shoulder pain, resulting in decreased pain, improved function, high satisfaction, and improved quality of life.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Sham surgery versus labral repair or biceps tenodesis for type II SLAP lesions of the shoulder: a three-armed randomised clinical trial

Background

Labral repair and biceps tenodesis are routine operations for superior labrum anterior posterior (SLAP) lesion of the shoulder, but evidence of their efficacy is lacking. We evaluated the effect of labral repair, biceps tenodesis and sham surgery on SLAP lesions.

Methods

A double-blind, sham-controlled trial was conducted with 118 surgical candidates (mean age 40 years), with patient history, clinical symptoms and MRI arthrography indicating an isolated type II SLAP lesion. Patients were randomly assigned to either labral repair (n=40), biceps tenodesis (n=39) or sham surgery (n=39) if arthroscopy revealed an isolated SLAP II lesion. Primary outcomes at 6 and 24 months were clinical Rowe score ranging from 0 to 100 (best possible) and Western Ontario Shoulder Instability Index (WOSI) ranging from 0 (best possible) to 2100. Secondary outcomes were Oxford Instability Shoulder Score, change in main symptoms, EuroQol (EQ-5D and EQ-VAS), patient satisfaction and complications.

Results

There were no significant between-group differences at any follow-up in any outcome. Between-group differences in Rowe scores at 2 years were: biceps tenodesis versus labral repair: 1.0 (95% CI −5.4 to 7.4), p=0.76; biceps tenodesis versus sham surgery: 1.6 (95% CI −5.0 to 8.1), p=0.64; and labral repair versus sham surgery: 0.6 (95% CI −5.9 to 7.0), p=0.86. Similar results—no differences between groups—were found for WOSI scores. Postoperative stiffness occurred in five patients after labral repair and in four patients after tenodesis.

Conclusion

Neither labral repair nor biceps tenodesis had any significant clinical benefit over sham surgery for patients with SLAP II lesions in the population studied.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00586742

Subsequent Shoulder Surgery After Isolated Arthroscopic SLAP Repair

PURPOSE

To quantify the incidence of and identify the risk factors for subsequent shoulder procedures after isolated SLAP repair.

METHODS

New York's Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was searched between 2003 and 2014 to identify individuals with the sole diagnosis of a SLAP lesion who underwent isolated arthroscopic SLAP repair. Patients were longitudinally followed up for a minimum of 3 years to analyze for subsequent ipsilateral shoulder procedures.

RESULTS

Between 2003 and 2014, 2,524 patients met our inclusion criteria. After 3 to 11 years of follow-up, 10.1% of patients (254 of 2,524) underwent repeat surgical intervention on the same shoulder as the initial SLAP repair. The mean time to repeat shoulder surgery was 2.3 ± 2.1 years. Subsequent procedures included subacromial decompression (35%), debridement (26.7%). repeat SLAP repair (19.7%), and biceps tenodesis or tenotomy (13.0%). After isolated SLAP repair, patients aged 20 years or younger were more likely to undergo arthroscopic Bankart repair (odds ratio [OR], 2.91; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36-6.21; P = .005), whereas age older than 30 years was an independent risk factor for subsequent acromioplasty (OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4-3.7; P < .001) and distal clavicle resection (OR, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.1-5.5; P = .030). The need for a subsequent procedure was significantly associated with Workers' Compensation cases (OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.7-3.2; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

We identified a 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair, often related to an additional diagnosis, suggesting that clinicians should consider other potential causes of shoulder pain when considering surgery for patients with SLAP lesions. In addition, the number of isolated SLAP repairs performed has decreased over time, and management of failed SLAP repair has shifted toward biceps tenodesis or tenotomy over revision SLAP repair in more recent years.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, case-control study.

Outcomes following long head of biceps tendon tenodesis

Lesions of the proximal long head of the biceps tendon (LHB) have been considered as a major cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. The role of the LHB in causing pain has been a source of controversy for many years, and extensive literature is available discussing anatomy, function, pathology, and most importantly appropriate treatment. Despite this, there is a lack of consensus in the literature regarding the management of biceps-related pathology. Biceps tenotomy and tenodesis are common surgical treatment options when dealing with LHB-related pathology. In this review, a brief discussion on surgical options is provided while focusing on the different options for biceps tenodesis including outcomes and complications.

Systematic Review of Biceps Tenodesis: Arthroscopic Versus Open

PURPOSE

We present a systematic review of the recent literature regarding the use of arthroscopic and open methods of tenodesis for lesions of the long head of the biceps brachii and present an analysis of the subjective and objective outcomes after these 2 procedures.

METHODS

PubMed was carefully reviewed for suitable articles relating to biceps tenodesis, both open and arthroscopic. We included studies reporting on the clinical outcomes of these 2 procedures that were of Level I to IV evidence and were published in the English language. The primary clinical outcomes for each study were determined, normalized, and reported as the percentage of good or excellent results versus poor results based on the outcome scores and criteria laid out by the authors in each of the studies. The exclusion criteria included studies in which biceps tenodesis was performed in patients with concomitant rotator cuff repairs, nonhuman studies, and biomechanical studies.

RESULTS

A total of 16 studies met our inclusion criteria. Among all studies, a total of 205 arthroscopic tenodesis procedures and a total of 271 open tenodesis procedures were performed. Among the 271 open tenodesis patients, 98% had a good or excellent outcome, with a poor outcome in 5 patients (2%). Among the 205 patients who underwent arthroscopic tenodesis, 98% had a good or excellent outcome, with a poor outcome in 5 patients (2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Both open and arthroscopic biceps tenodesis provided satisfactory outcomes in most patients, and there were no identifiable differences in this review.