Biceps Tenodesis

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The biceps tendon plays an important role in shoulder function. It travels through the shoulder joint and is attached to the top of the shoulder socket (glenoid), helping to stabilize the joint and assist with arm movement. Injury, inflammation, instability, or degeneration of the biceps tendon can cause persistent shoulder pain, weakness, and difficulty with everyday activities.

Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure that relieves pain by repositioning the damaged portion of the biceps tendon outside the shoulder joint and securing it to the upper arm bone instead. Dr. Seiter performs advanced biceps tenodesis procedures to restore shoulder function, alleviate pain, and help patients return to work, sports, and daily activities with confidence.

Candidates for Biceps Tenodesis

You may be a candidate for biceps tenodesis if you:

Experience persistent pain in the front of the shoulder
Have biceps tendonitis that has not improved with conservative treatments
Have a partial tear of the long head of the biceps tendon
Experience instability or subluxation (slipping) of the biceps tendon
Have a SLAP tear (superior labrum anterior to posterior tear) involving the biceps attachment
Have shoulder pain associated with a rotator cuff tear
Have not found lasting relief from physical therapy, medication, activity modification, or injections

Dr. Seiter will perform a thorough physical exam and review imaging to determine whether biceps tenodesis is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

About the Procedure

Biceps tenodesis is typically performed arthroscopically, often in conjunction with other shoulder procedures such as rotator cuff repair or labral treatment. Treatment includes:

Biceps Tenodesis: Releases the damaged portion of the long head of the biceps tendon from its attachment inside the shoulder joint and secures it to the upper arm bone (humerus) using specialized fixation techniques. Relocating the tendon outside the joint reduces irritation and pain while preserving the function of the biceps muscle.
Treatment of Associated Conditions: Many patients undergoing biceps tenodesis also have other shoulder conditions, such as rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, or impingement. These issues can often be addressed during the same surgery to restore overall shoulder function.

Because biceps tenodesis is typically performed arthroscopically, patients generally benefit from smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Recovery

Recovery after biceps tenodesis varies based on whether additional shoulder procedures are performed at the same time. Most patients can expect:

Sling use for several weeks to protect the repair during early healing
Physical therapy beginning shortly after surgery to gradually restore range of motion
Gradual progression to strengthening exercises as healing continues
Return to light daily activities within several weeks
Continued improvement in strength and function over several months
Return to sports or higher-demand activities typically within 3 to 6 months

Dr. Seiter and his rehabilitation team will provide a personalized recovery plan based on your specific procedure and activity goals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can biceps tendonitis be treated without surgery?

Yes. Many cases of biceps tendonitis improve with conservative treatment, including activity modification, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. Surgery is typically considered only when symptoms persist despite these treatments or when there is significant tendon damage or associated shoulder pathology that requires surgical intervention.

What is biceps tenodesis?

Biceps tenodesis is a surgical procedure that relieves pain caused by damage or irritation of the long head of the biceps tendon while preserving the strength and function of the biceps muscle.

What’s the difference between biceps tenodesis and tenotomy?

Both procedures address painful biceps tendon conditions by releasing the tendon from its attachment in the shoulder. The difference is that in a tenodesis, the tendon is reattached to the humerus, while in a tenotomy, the tendon is simply released. Tenodesis is often preferred for younger or more active patients because it better preserves muscle contour and strength.

How do I know if I need biceps tenodesis?

Biceps tenodesis may be recommended if you have persistent pain in the front of the shoulder that has not improved with non-surgical treatment, or if imaging shows significant damage, instability, or tearing of the long head of the biceps tendon. Surgery is also commonly performed in patients with certain SLAP tears, rotator cuff tears, or other shoulder conditions involving the biceps tendon. Dr. Seiter will evaluate your symptoms, physical exam findings, and imaging studies to determine whether biceps tenodesis is the best treatment option for your condition.

Can biceps tenodesis be combined with other shoulder procedures?

Yes. Biceps tenodesis is commonly performed alongside rotator cuff repair, labral treatment, or other arthroscopic shoulder procedures when multiple conditions are contributing to symptoms.

Will I lose strength after biceps tenodesis?

The goal of the procedure is to preserve function while eliminating the source of pain. Most patients maintain excellent upper arm strength after recovery.

Will the pain in the front of my shoulder go away?

Many patients experience significant improvement or complete resolution of the front-of-shoulder pain associated with biceps tendon pathology. Outcomes depend on the extent of tendon damage, associated shoulder conditions, and commitment to rehabilitation.

When can I return to sports after biceps tenodesis?

Most patients return to sports and higher-level activities within 3 to 6 months, depending on their recovery progress and whether additional procedures were performed.

Biceps Tenodesis

Candidates for Biceps Tenodesis

About the Procedure

Recovery

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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