rupture of biceps tendon

introduction

there are 3 tendons of the biceps muscle:
- 2 proximal:
  - long head
  - short head (rarely ruptured)
- 1 distal
tendon rupture usually occurs during a specific traumatic event that causes sudden pain, a “pop” and subsequent bruising

diagnosis is often clinical but may require diagnostic ultrasound as they can be difficult to distinguish from rotator cuff pathology
initial resting of muscles with a sling
non-emergent referral to orthopaedics for consideration of operative repair, particularly if:
- rupture involves the distal tendon as this results in significant loss of power, and supination and warrants early referral
- younger more active age groups
- suspected superior labral tear (SLAP lesions) associated with insertion of the long head - arm often feels “dead”