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Rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
A distinction is made between tendon ruptures along the length (usually at the level of the transition to the muscle belly) and its detachment from the point of fixation, often with a small bone plate.
ICD-10 code
S46.1 Injury of muscle and tendon of long head of biceps.
[ What causes tendon damage?
Subcutaneous tendon injuries occur as a result of sudden strain or impact to a tight tendon.
What causes a rupture of the long head of the biceps tendon?
Rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii muscle occurs when lifting something heavy or when suddenly and forcefully straightening the arm bent at the elbow joint.
Symptoms of a ruptured tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii
Anamnesis
Sharp pain, sometimes a crunching sound at the moment of injury.
Inspection and physical examination
The strength of the hand to flex the forearm decreases sharply. Active tension of the biceps muscle is moderately painful, revealing a lack of tone and a depression in its upper part. The belly of the muscle bulges under the skin of the lower third of the shoulder. Flexion and supination of the forearm are weakened. The study should be carried out by comparing with the healthy side.
Treatment of rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii
Surgical treatment of rupture of the tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii
People of working age are prescribed surgical treatment in a hospital setting - the distal end of the torn tendon is transosseously fixed in the area of the intertubercular groove or slightly lower. The limb is immobilized with a plaster thoracobrachial bandage for 5-6 weeks.
Approximate period of incapacity
Working capacity is restored within 6-10 weeks.