Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures Research Articles

Time-sensitive injuries for the sports medicine surgeon - "Sports Medicine Trauma", Part 1: Upper Extremity.

Skeletal fractures are traumatic injuries that are widely accepted as requiring acute treatment to avoid long-term disability and dysfunction. There are a number of soft-tissue injuries or non-traditional fractures, frequently treated by sports medicine surgeons, which additionally require treatment in an expedited fashion in order to optimize healing and function. Sports medicine injuries of the lower extremity requiring acute treatment include, but are not limited to, irreducible shoulder dislocations, acute traumatic rotator cuff tears, posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocations, high grade acromioclavicular joint dislocations, pectoralis major tendon ruptures, distal biceps tendon ruptures, and triceps tendon ruptures. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the sports medicine injuries of the upper extremity which require acute/urgent management to facilitate optimal treatment.

Which risk factors are involved in a distal biceps tendon injury? A systematic review.

Distal biceps tendon rupture is a rare injury predominately occurring in middle-aged men. This study aimed to collect relevant risk factors associated with distal biceps tendon rupture from the published literature. This systematic review aimed to collect and tabulate the risk factors for distal biceps tendon rupture. Studies published in English were searched concerning risk factors for distal biceps tendon ruptures until July 2022; cohort studies, case series and randomized controlled trials were subjected to analysis. Case studies, cadaveric studies and reviews in any form were excluded. The studies were quantitatively and qualitatively reviewed. One hundred twenty-one articles presenting risk factors for distal biceps tendon ruptures were identified, recruiting a total of 7,484-7,576 patients. The average age of the individuals was 46.8 years, with 96.7% being males and 94.7% having affinity for sports activities. In 56.7% of the cases, the dominant arm was involved, and in 54.6%, the right arm was affected. The use of tobacco was found in 20.8% of cases and of anabolic steroids in 2.5% of cases. On average, 55.8% of distal biceps tendon rupture patients had a physical occupation and the most common mechanism of the injury was related to heavy weight lifting observed in 53.2% of subjects. The most common and outstanding reported risk factors for distal biceps tendon ruptures were age, sex and sports activity, i.e., middle-aged males being still physically active and practicing sports. Steroid usage does not seem to increase significantly the risk of the distal biceps tendon rupture.

Functional evaluation after cortical button fixation for distal biceps ruptures – Is there any difference between manual or non-manual workers?

BackgroundThis study aims to compare clinical and functional results after distal biceps tendon repair in manual workers vs. non-manual workers. MethodsThis is a retrospective comparative study which refers to 57 cases with distal biceps tendon rupture, divided in manual workers (24 elbows) and non-manual workers (33), that were treated by a single incision with cortical button and interference screw fixation. Included cases have a minimum of 3 months follow-up, post-operative X-ray and signed informed consent for the investigation. ResultsSupination and flexion strength was higher in manual workers vs. non-manual workers (p-value=0.192 and 0.878, respectively). Nine patients showed loss of range of motion, concerning supination and pronation, and this was correlated to worse functional scores. Functional scores tend to be superior in non-manual workers. Ten patients had heterotopic ossification and 20 patients reported lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve neuropraxia; one had both. Most of them had a full recovery. ConclusionAccording to clinical evaluation and post-operative scores, the performed surgical procedure provides good to excellent mid-term functional results. Nevertheless, there were not any differences between manual or non-manual workers.

Distal biceps tendon repair: outcome and complications with single incision anchor fixation.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the functional outcome and quality of life in distal biceps tendon repair with single incision technique and anchor fixation method. A retrospective cohort study was made of patients with complete distal biceps tendon rupture. The chosen repair method was single incision technique with anchor fixation. The outcome was assessed with functional testing of the elbow with strength and ROM. Additionally Mayo elbow performance index, Oxford elbow score, Disability arm hand shoulder questionnaire and patient rated elbow evaluation scores were used to evaluate quality of life. Of the 28 patients, the average strength in flexion and supination was decreased with 91% and 89% of the strength compared to the non-injured arm. ROM was preserved in flexion, extension, supination and pronation. The mean scores for quality of life evaluation were MEPS = 96 ± 7.8, OES = 46.8 ± 1.9, DASH = 1.0 ± 1.9 and PREE = 2.0 ± 3.6. LABCN injury was the most common temporary complication with 30% followed by pain with 23%. Two patients were identified with HO and 1 patient was identified with median nerve injury. There were no cases of radioulnar synostosis and PIN injury. Overall strength in flexion and supination were slightly decreased with preserved ROM. Patients reported nearly perfect quality of life as demonstrated with the scores. The complications rate was high with mainly minor complications. Distal biceps tendon repair with single incision technique and anchor fixation overall leads to a very satisfying outcome.

Long-term Outcomes of Complete Tears of the Distal Biceps Tendon: An Analysis of Surgical Management at a Median Follow-up of 14.7 Years.

Surgical repair of full thickness biceps tears has demonstrated adequate outcomes in short and mid-term studies. However, data on the long-term outcomes of full thickness distal biceps injuries and their treatment are currently lacking. The purpose of this study was to report on patient demographics, injury characteristics, and long-term outcomes for patients with full-thickness distal biceps tears. It was hypothesized that complete distal biceps tears managed operatively would demonstrate robust clinical success at long-term follow-up. Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Patients with magnetic resonance imaging-confirmed, complete distal biceps tendon rupture sustained between 1996 and 2016 were identified. Patients were cross-referenced with a regional geographic database. A total of 66 patients (3 female, 63 male) with a median age of 50.8 years (IQR, 41.5-60.4) and a median clinical follow-up of 14.7 years (IQR, 9.6-17.9 years) were included. Patients who sustained a full-thickness distal biceps tendon tear were likely to be in their early 50s, male, right-hand dominant, current/former smokers, and laborers with a history of traumatic injury during an intentional movement. Most of these patients had pain and supination weakness but no loss of range of motion. All included tears were treated operatively. At final follow-up, patients maintained a majority of near-normal range of motion (median total arc of flexion/extension 140° and supination/pronation 80°), excellent elbow flexion strength (91% of patients had full strength), and adequate elbow supination strength (76% of patients had full strength). The overall complication rate was 24%, with 16 out of 66 patients experiencing some type of complication between infection, rerupture, heterotopic ossification, reoperation, and nerve complications. Overall return to work was 98%, and 85% of those who returned to work did so without restrictions. Complete tears of the distal biceps were most common in patients 50 years of age, male sex, right-hand dominant, and current/former smokers. The most common profession was laborer, and injuries were primarily traumatic in nature during intentional activity. Patients managed operatively demonstrated high rates of success at long-term follow-up with respect to elbow function and clinical outcomes.

Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Requires an MRI to Determine Whether Injury is Complete or Incomplete and the Extent of Secondary Damage

Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Requires an MRI to Determine Whether Injury is Complete or Incomplete and the Extent of Secondary Damage

Decreased Strength, Complication Rate and Higher Satisfaction in Conservative Treatment of Partial Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Compared to Surgical Treatment: A Systematic Review.

Treatment modalities for partial distal biceps tendon (DBT) ruptures include conservative management (immobilization, medication, and physical therapy) or surgery. Selecting treatment modality can present a challenge to both patient and provider. It was hypothesized that patients undergoing surgical treatment for partial DBT rupture would have higher complications but better overall strength, range of motion (ROM), and patient satisfaction. Systematic Review. A systematic review was performed in adherence to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Cochrane, Embase, and Medline databases were searched for studies published through May 2023. Studies were included if they examined patients with a partial DBT rupture who underwent treatment. Exclusion criteria were non-human studies, studies not in English, reviews, technical notes, letters to the editor, surgical technique papers, and studies reported in a prior review. 13 studies consisting of 290 patients with a partial DBT tear were included in this review. 75% of the patients were male and the ages ranged from 23 - 75 years. The follow up for the patients ranged from 1 - 94 months. 55 patients underwent conservative treatment versus 256 patients underwent surgical treatment. Outcomes examined by the studies included pain, strength, range of motion (ROM), complications, patient reported outcomes (PROs), return to activity, and patient satisfaction. Treatment for partial DBT tear via surgery or conservative treatment both produce good clinical outcomes. There are similar outcomes between treatment options for pain and ROM. Conservative treatment had some poorer outcomes in terms of strength after treatment. Surgical treatment had more complications and a few patients with decreased satisfaction. Overall, both are viable treatment options, requiring a physician and patient discussion regarding the pros and cons of both options as a part of a shared decision-making process that incorporates patient priorities.

Acute Distal Biceps Tendon Repair With Cortical Button Offers Good Functional Outcomes: A Retrospective Study Focusing on Range of Motion, Muscle Strength and Pain.

Background Distal biceps tendon (DBT) rupture is not one of the most common upper limb injuries. Surgical intervention is recommended for these injuries to restore muscular strength and functionality. Multiple different techniques are documented in the literature, however there is no definitive consensus on the most effective surgical treatment. The objective of this study was to assess the functional results of patients who underwent repair of DBT utilizing cortical button fixation procedures. Methods This study is a retrospective single-unit case series consisting of 54 patients who underwent DBT repair at Heartlands Hospital in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The patients' functional outcomes was assessed by the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Results The mean age was 51±11.01 years. Patients were operated on 4.72±7.083 days after the injury. The mean pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) 6 months after the surgery was 0.54±0.50. At 6 months follow-up, the average extension deficit was 2.69° (0-10), flexion 132° (120-140), supination76° (50- 85), and 77° for pronation (78-95). Patients were followed up routinely for 6 months. Mayo Elbow Performance (MEP) Score was utilized to assess the functional outcome and the mean MEP score was 91.43±8.26 which showed excellent functional outcomes for the cohort. Conclusion DBT repair with cortical button fixation yielded favorable functional outcomes at 6 months, notably restoring supination strength. This approach offers anatomical reinsertion while minimizing nerve damage risk.

Bilateral simultaneous distal biceps tendon rupture repair with both cortical button and interference screw

Bilateral simultaneous distal biceps tendon rupture repair with both cortical button and interference screw

PoCUS identification of distal biceps tendon rupture: a case report

BackgroundIn the Emergency Department (ED), patients may present with various injuries that damage muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bony structures. Fractures, joint dislocations, strains, and sprains are prevalent among them. However, distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon.Case ReportHere, we report a case of a young man presented to the ED with a complaint of left arm pain following a martial arts activity. The diagnosis of distal biceps tendon rupture was made using a point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS), and an early referral to the orthopedic service was provided.ConclusionThis case highlights the utility of point-of-care ultrasound in assessing musculoskeletal injuries in the ED. Early incorporation of PoCUS into routine clinical practice can potentially improve the overall care of musculoskeletal injuries.

Clinical case of the surgical treatment of complete rupture of distal biceps tendon using two cortical buttons

Clinical case of the surgical treatment of complete rupture of distal biceps tendon using two cortical buttons

Prevalence and clinical implications of heterotopic ossification after distal biceps tendon repair.

Complete distal biceps tendon ruptures are relatively uncommon. Conservative treatment may result in persistent pain and weakness. Therefore, surgical repair is usually indicated in order to restore strength. Different surgical techniques and fixation methods have been described. The most reported complications after surgery are iatrogenic nerve damage, heterotopic ossification (HO) and re-rupture. Heterotopic ossification can be variable in size. Significant HO can limit range of motion while minor HO often remains asymptomatic. The overall presence of HO is likely underreported in literature, as imaging is reserved for symptomatic patients. The purpose of this study is to report the prevalence and clinical implications of heterotopic ossification after surgical repair of the distal biceps tendon. This retrospective study assessed the prevalence and clinical relevance of postoperative HO after distal biceps tendon repair. CT-scans were used to evaluate size and location of the HO. VAS scores, DASH scores, MEPI, and range of motion (ROM) were assessed to evaluate pain, patient satisfaction and elbow function. HO was observed on CT images of 19 out of 35 patients (54%). The use of interference screws, timing of surgery after rupture and timing of radiographic assessment postoperatively did not influence the prevalence of HO. The presence of HO had no statistically significant impact on the VAS scores, ROM measurements and MEPI and DASH scores. According to our findings, the overall incidence of HO is higher than previously reported but there are no differences in clinical outcomes when compared to patients without HO.

Is the Complication Rate in the Surgical Repair of the Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Influenced by the Timing, Type of Incision and Method of Fixation?

Distal biceps tears are uncommon injuries, typically leading to significant loss of elbow flexion and supination strength; surgical repairs restore muscular strength and endurance. The aim of this study was to compare the complication rate of early (< 21 days) vs delayed (> 21 days) repair and the effect of types of incision and fixation methods used in the repair. A total of 86 cases were retrospectively reviewed, and 66 cases were included in the study after exclusion. Different preoperative and intraoperative variables and postoperative outcome measures were recorded. We analysed the effects of early and delayed repair, types of incision and fixation methods on the complications. 31 had an early, and 35 had delayed distal biceps repair. The mean follow-up was 14.92 weeks. 13.6% had major, and 40.9% had minor complications. No significant difference was noted in complications between the two groups (54.8% vs 54.3%). Higher complications were observed when surgery was done using a single anterior incision compared to 2 anterior incisions (68.8% vs 16.7%, p=0.0002). Overall, higher (76.3% vs 25.9%, p=0.0001) complications were noted in patients where fixation was done using a cortical button & interference screw in comparison to the cortical button alone. No significant difference in complication was noted between early and delayed repair. However, more complications were noted in the single anterior incision compared to the two anterior incision technique. Higher complications were also observed with the cortical button and interference screw fixation method compared to the cortical button alone.

Distal biceps tendon injuries treatment: A survey of orthopaedic surgeons' current practice and preferences.

Distal biceps tendon (DBT) injuries are relatively uncommon. Controversies exist regarding the best approach, leading to variations in treatment. This study aims to understand the preferences and practices of orthopedic surgeons regarding management of DBT injuries, as well as assess the feasibility of a future pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the impact of various surgical factors on patient outcomes. A cross-sectional international survey was conducted amongst surgeons treating patients with DBT injuries. The survey included questions about treatment preferences, surgical techniques, case volumes, and interest in participating in a future RCT. Responses from 491 orthopedic surgeons from 26 countries/territories were obtained. Most surgeons had limited exposure to DBT ruptures. Variations were observed in the work-up process, with some relying solely on clinical examinations while others used diagnostic imaging. A single incision approach was the most common surgical technique, and tendon fixation with suspensory cortical buttons was frequently preferred. Most surgeons did not explore or repair the bicipital aponeurosis. Interest in participating in a future RCT varied for different surgical controversies. This survey provides valuable insights into surgeons' preferences and practices for DBT injury management. The study highlights the need for standardization in the work-up process and the use of evidence-based guidelines. Current practices may be influenced by factors such as training, implant availability, and costs. The survey also identified surgeons and centers interested in collaboration for future multicenter trials, allowing for equitable access to surgical collaboration opportunities and addressing the lack of evidence in DBT rupture treatment. Level V, expert-opinion.

Smaller radioulnar window is associated with a distal biceps tendon rupture in patients with limited forearm rotation: a 3-dimensional computed tomography comparison study of proximal impingement caused by radial tuberosity hypertrophy—a single-center case series

It has been suggested that hypertrophy of the radial tuberosity may result in impingements leading to either lesion of the distal biceps tendon or rotational impairment. The two studies on hypertrophy of the radial tuberosity had contradictory results and did not study the distance between the radius and ulna: the radioulnar window. Therefore, this comparative cohort study aims to investigate the radioulnar window in healthy subjects and compare them with subjects suffering from either non-traumatic onset rotational impairment of the forearm or non-traumatic onset distal biceps tendon ruptures with a rotational impairment of the forearm using dynamic 3D CT measurements in order to attain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying etiology of distal biceps tendon ruptures. We hypothesize that a smaller radioulnar window increases the risk of having a non-traumatic onset distal biceps tendon rupture and/or a rotational impairment compared to healthy individuals. This study measured the distance between the radius and ulna at the level of the radial tuberosity using entire forearm computed tomography (CT) scans of fifteen patients in the Amphia Hospital between 2019 and 2022. Measurements of healthy subjects were compared to subjects with non-traumatic onset rotational impairment of the forearm and subjects with a non-traumatic onset distal biceps tendon rupture with a rotational impairment of the forearm. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for individual comparisons, and the Mann-Whitney U test was used for group comparisons. A significant difference was found between the radioulnar window in the forearms of the subjects with a distal biceps tendon rupture (mean: 1.4, SD 0.4 mm) compared to the radioulnar window in forearms of the healthy subjects (mean: 4.8, SD 1.4 mm, p = 0.018). A trend towards smaller radioulnar windows in the rotational impairment groups was also observed, although it was not significant (p > 0.05). The radioulnar window in the forearms of the subjects with a distal biceps tendon rupture with a rotational impairment was significantly smaller than in the forearms of the healthy subjects. Therefore, patients with a smaller radioulnar window have a higher risk of rupturing their distal biceps tendon. Non-traumatic onset rotational impairments of the forearm may also be caused by a similar mechanism. Future studies are needed to back this finding further.

Comparative Analysis of Surgical Approaches for Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture: Single-Incision Technique versus Double-Incision Technique.

Background: This study aimed to compare the outcomes of the single-incision technique with a distal biceps repair system versus the modified double-incision technique, specifically the Morrey-modified approach, Krackow sutures, and drill holes, for the management of acute and chronic distal biceps tendon rupture. The study was conducted at the Orthopedic-Traumatology Clinic II of SCJUPBT Timisoara, Romania, between 2014 and 2022. Methods: A total of sixty-nine patients with acute distal biceps tendon rupture and five patients with chronic distal tendon rupture were included in the study. Forty-eight cases underwent the single-incision technique with the distal biceps repair system, while twenty-four patients were treated with the modified double-incision technique. Results: Both surgical techniques demonstrated favorable outcomes in terms of successful tendon repair and functional restoration. However, the single-incision technique exhibited slightly superior results in terms of patient satisfaction, range of motion, and postoperative rehabilitation. The modified double-incision technique showed comparable outcomes but had a higher incidence of complications, particularly related to wound healing. Conclusion: The single-incision technique with the distal biceps repair system and the modified double-incision technique, including the Morrey-modified approach, Krackow sutures, and drill holes, are effective surgical approaches for the management of distal biceps tendon rupture. The single-incision technique yielded better functional outcomes and patient satisfaction, while the modified double-incision technique had a higher risk of complications. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods is necessary to validate these findings and determine the most appropriate surgical approach for distal biceps tendon rupture.

Management of Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures: A Survey of Fellowship-Trained Subspecialist Elbow Surgeons.

There are several approaches to the management of distal biceps tendon ruptures, with no consensus on what constitutes best practice. An online survey queried the perceptions and management of distal biceps tendon ruptures amongst fellowship-trained subspecialist elbow surgeons, which primarily comprised of members of the Shoulder and Elbow Society of Australia, the national subspecialist interest group of the Australian Orthopaedic Association and the Mayo Clinic Elbow Club (Rochester, MN). One hundred surgeons responded. The median (IQR) experience as orthopedic surgeons amongst respondents was 17 (10-23) years. 78% of respondents saw >10 cases of distal biceps tendon ruptures annually. 95% of respondents would recommend surgery for symptomatic radiologically-confirmed partial tears, the most common indications being pain (83%), weakness (60%), and tear size (48%). 43% of respondents would have grafts available for tears older than 6 weeks. The one-incision approach (70%) was preferred over two-incisions (30%). 78% of one-incision users believed that their repair location was anatomic, compared to 100% of two-incision users. One-incision users were more likely to have encountered lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve (78% vs 46%) and superficial radial nerve palsies (28% vs 11%). Two-incision users were more likely to have encountered posterior interosseus nerve palsy (21% v 15%), heterotopic ossification (54% vs 42%), and synostosis (14% vs 0%). Re-ruptures were the most common cause of reoperation. The more conservative a respondent's postoperative immobilization was, the less likely they were to have ever encountered re-rupture (14% amongst cast users, 29% amongst splint/brace users, 49% amongst sling users, 100% amongst non-immobilizers). 30% of respondents who placed elbow strength restrictions for 6 months postoperatively encountered re-rupture, compared to 40% amongst those who restricted for 6-12 weeks postoperatively. The operation rate for repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures amongst subspecialist elbow surgeons is high, as seen in our cohort. However, there is a large variation in the approach toward its management. One-incision (anterior) was preferred over two-incisions (posterior). Complications from repair of distal biceps tendon ruptures can be expected even amongst subspecialists, and are associated with surgical approach. The responses imply that more conservative postoperative rehabilitation may be associated with a lower risk of re-rupture.

Retrospective Study on the Risk of Nerve Injury After Distal Biceps Tendon Repair Using Cortical Button.

Distal biceps tendon ruptures are relatively rare injuries that typically require surgical intervention to restore flexion and supination strength. Concerns have been raised regarding the risk of nerve injuries, particularly the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN), associated with the use of cortical buttons in distal biceps repair. This study aimed to estimate the incidence of PIN injury as well as injuries to the lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and superficial branch of the radial nerve following distal biceps repair using cortical buttons. A retrospective review was conducted on all patients who underwent distal biceps repair with cortical buttons at a district general hospital between January 2014 and May 2022. Patient data, including age, gender, time from injury to surgery, type of procedure, and postoperative nerve injuries, were collected. The incidence of nerve injuries was analyzed, and the outcomes were assessed during postoperative follow-up visits. Ninety-six male patients were included in the study, with an average age of 45.6 years. The average time from injury to surgery was 22.6 days. All patients underwent primary repairexcept for two patients who underwent reconstruction with hamstring grafts. None of the patients experienced a PIN injury. However, 16 patients (16.7%) developed lateral cutaneous nerve injuries of the forearm, and three patients (3.1%) had superficial radial nerve injuries. Our study, encompassing a large cohort of patients over an eight-year period, demonstrates the safety of distal biceps repair using cortical buttons with regard to PIN nerve injury. However, there were incidences of lateral cutaneous nerve of the forearm and superficial radial nerve injuries, consistent with previous studies.

Reliability and Validity of the Hook Test for Diagnosis of Distal Biceps Tendon Ruptures

Although the initial description of the distal biceps tendon (DBT) hook test (HT) reported 100% sensitivity (Sn) and specificity (Sp), subsequent retrospective series have demonstrated imperfect validity. The purpose of this investigation was to prospectively assess the validity and reliability of the HT for complete DBT ruptures. We aimed to determine the Sn/Sp and interrater reliability for the HT. A consecutive series of adult patients presenting to our outpatient clinics with an elbow complaint was prospectively examined. Patients were included if they had undergone advanced imaging (magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound) that imaged the DBT and underwent DBT repair. There were four participating surgeons, all of whom were blinded to magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasound prior to performing the HT. To determine the Sn/Sp of the HT and advanced imaging, intraoperative findings served as the primary reference standard. The interrater reliability of the HT was calculated for cases in which a primary examiner (surgeon) and secondary examiner (physician assistant or resident) performed the HT. Of 64 patients who had undergone advanced imaging, 28 (44%) underwent DBT surgery and were included in the assessment of Sn/Sp. The mean age was 49 years, and all patients were men. The Sn and Sp of the HT were 96% and 67%, respectively. Advanced imaging demonstrated 100% Sn and Sp. Twenty-five patients were evaluated by a primary and secondary examiner. The interrater reliability was substantial (Cohen kappa, 0.71). The Sn and Sp of the HT were 96% and 67%, respectively, when assessed prospectively. Advanced imaging findings (magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasound) demonstrated 100% Sn and Sp. The HT can be performed reliably by examiners with varying experience levels. Considering the imperfect validity of the HT, we caution against the use of this examination alone to diagnose DBT ruptures. Diagnostic II.

Distal biceps tendon ruptures: clinical features, diagnostic strategy and treatment options

Relevance. This paper reviews the latest evidence concerning distal biceps tendon repair, particularly aspects such as tear type, patient demographics, diagnostic clues, surgical indications, the anatomy of distal tendon insertion, radial tuberosity, single- vs double-incision reconstruction, fixation techniques (bone tunnels, distal biceps button, interference screw, button plus screw) and postoperative outcomes.Material and methods. The MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science, Scopus and Elibrary online databases were searched using the keywords ‘distal biceps tendon’, ‘elbow’, ‘intramedullary’, ‘partial’. ‘complete’, ‘review’ and ‘rupture’. Sixty publications on distal biceps tendon rupture treatment were identified that appeared over 60 years, between 1951 and October 2021.Results and discussion. The review has demonstrated that complete deltoid ligament (DBT) tears are predominantly diagnosed clinically, while medical imaging has proven to be a valuable adjunct for diagnosing partial tears. Advances in clinical and medical imaging of partial tears have the potential to expedite the diagnostic process and guide treatment strategies. Primary repair is commonly employed for complete tears, utilizing either a single-incision or double-incision approach, resulting in favorable clinical outcomes. However, the double-incision technique carries a higher risk of heterotopic ossification, whereas the single-incision approach presents a greater risk of nerve-related complications. To mitigate the risk of posterior interosseous nerve lesions in single-incision repairs, intramedullary fixation may serve as a viable solution. Additionally, DBT endoscopy holds promise for the treatment of low-grade partial tears and tendinosis.