Arthroscopic transfer of the long head biceps to the conjoint tendon.

Abstract

Pathology of the biceps tendon is often a factor in the etiology of shoulder pain. However, diagnosis and treatment of such pathology remains controversial. When conservative management fails to relieve symptoms, surgical options include tenotomy or tenodesis. Tenotomy has provided excellent results with regard to local pain relief, but a potential cosmetic deformity and occasional painful cramping are common in younger patients. Tenodesis has also had high failure rates resulting from persistent local pain. We have used an all-arthroscopic technique for transfer of the long-head biceps to the conjoint tendon instead of traditional tenodesis. We believe that this transfer more closely recreates the normal axis of the biceps muscle and may offer improved results over conventional tenodesis.