Bicep Tenodesis

Biceps Tenodesis is a surgical procedure that is typically used to treat injuries to the biceps tendon in the shoulder. These injuries may occur due to an unstable or dislocating tendon, tendonitis, or tears in the tendon itself. The biceps is a major pain generator in the shoulder.

There are two main parts to the biceps tendon, the long head and the short head of the biceps. The long head is the portion that resides within the shoulder joint and is usually the one involved in shoulder issues. A tendon is the flexible cord of tissue that connects muscles to bones. Tendon problems may occur anywhere in the body, but are more common in certain joints including the shoulder because of its wide range of motion.

Candidates for Tenodesis

Patients may be considered for tenodesis surgery if they have been experiencing considerable pain and weakness in the shoulder due to a biceps tendon injury. This is often determined by a medical history, physical examination and imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI scan of the joint. In addition, an arthroscopic evaluation of the joint may be necessary. A tenodesis procedure can be performed on patients of any age if they are experiencing biceps pain that has not responded to nonsurgical management.

The Tenodesis Procedure

Tenodesis is performed as an outpatient procedure that takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete. After general anesthesia has been administered, the tenodesis procedure begins with the surgeon accessing the joint in the shoulder area. It is often performed arthroscopically, using a minimally invasive technique that involves making several small incisions into which a fiber-optic device and tiny surgical instruments are inserted, offering patients the benefits of less tissue damage and shorter recovery periods.

The surgeon removes damaged tissue around the biceps tendon and detaches the tendon from its connection with the labrum. Any bone or cartilage fragments or bone spurs found that may irritate the tendon will be removed. The tendon is then attached to the humerus bone near the shoulder joint using anchors and strong sutures to hold it in position. This serves to decrease the stress placed on both the tendon and the labrum.

Recovery from Tenodesis

No hospital stay is generally required following a tenodesis procedure. Patients will need to wear a sling for several weeks after the surgery to provide support and protection for the healing shoulder joint. Physical therapy aids the recovery process as it helps to strengthen and restore function to the shoulder. Most patients can return to work in sedentary jobs after a few days, but it usually takes three to six months before more strenuous activities may be permitted.

Risks of Tenodesis

Tenodesis is considered a safe procedure, however, all forms of surgery may carry some risk. The risks typically associated with tenodesis may include:

Infection
Blood clot
Damage to a nerve or blood vessel
Bleeding
Biceps tendon tearing

In some cases, individuals may continue to experience pain, stiffness, muscle weakness and numbness in the affected arm and shoulder.

You're Not Too Old to Get Fit!

Getting older comes with a unique set of challenges. Taking extra steps to care for your well-being is crucial to a high quality of life. Many seniors think their physical changes mean they have to stop being active. But, it’s more important than ever to stay in shape as you age.

With adjustments, there are ways for you to take care of your body and feel great.

Benefits of Staying in Shape

Exercise is an essential part of life. But, aging can make exercising a challenge. Staying active helps get the blood flowing through your body and carry oxygen to your organs.

Also, increased blood flow helps endorphins flood your brain. More endorphins help ease tension and stress. Lowering your stress levels helps your self-esteem as negative emotions have been released.

Staying active as you age can help you build and maintain your muscle structure. Our muscle tissue decreases as we age, but working out helps slow this down. Another benefit

of working out is it can help lower your blood pressure. Your blood pressure is crucial to your heart function. Staying fit ensures your heart performs at its best.

While you may think that you’re days of working out are over, you have plenty of reasons to keep going.

Exercises You Can Do

While you may not be able to lift 200 pounds over your head anymore, there are plenty of ways to keep your body strong.

As your body changes, you have to adapt how you work out. For example, jogging can be tough on the knees, back, and ankles. Instead, you can opt for low-impact activities like walking, which are easier to do. Low-impact movements put less strain on the joints but still do the job of keeping you moving.

Also, swimming is another way to ease the tension on your joints. The buoyancy of the water counters the effects of gravity on your body. Negating the pull of gravity allows for more range of motion and helps you complete more challenging movements.

Getting Help

Staying active is crucial to your health as you age.

But, it can be overwhelming to find a routine that works for you. But, you don’t have to do it alone.

Dr. Desio is ready to help you find what works for you. Schedule an appointment in the Worcester office today by calling 508-363-6363.