(v) Biceps and triceps tendon pathology at the elbow

Rupture of the distal biceps and triceps tendons are amongst the rarest of all tendon injuries. Rupture is often the result of forceful, eccentric contraction on a background of pre-existing tendon degeneration. The diagnosis of rupture is usually made on clinical grounds, with imaging assisting in the diagnosis of partial tendon ruptures. Left untreated, considerable functional deficit may ensue. Surgical repair offers good to excellent results regardless of the fixation technique used, though the risk of complications must be taken into account: the ultimate goal being anatomical reconstruction of the tendon attachment. The choice of approach to the distal biceps tendon remains controversial, with most choosing between a single anterior or double-incision technique. This article provides an overview of the anatomy, biomechanics and management of biceps and triceps tendon pathology.