The double intramedullary cortical button fixation for distal biceps tendon repair

Purpose: This study was designed to present the novel technique of intramedullary cortical button fixation for distal biceps tendon repair via a single-limited anterior portal. Methods: To reattach the ruptured biceps tendon at the radial tuberosity, two Bicepsbutton ^™ (Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA) were intramedullary positioned to the anterior cortex. The surgical procedure is described in detail. This technique has been performed in a first series of 3 patients with acute distal biceps tendon ruptures. Results: All patients were very satisfied after surgery and would undergo the same surgical procedure again. All patients regained full range of elbow motion with comparable strength of forearm supination and elbow flexion measured against the uninjured arm at 6 months of follow-up. No neurovascular complications have been occured. Conclusion: Double intramedullary cortical button repair has shown to be a safe and reliable fixation method for distal biceps tendon rupture in a small series of patients. Preliminary results are encouraging. Level of evidence: Technical description, case series, Level IV.