Biceps Tendon
Anatomy & Pathology
Key Anatomical Points:
- Long head arises from the superior glenoid margin
- Short head from the tip of the coracoid process
- Exits joint at 90 degree turn stabilised by the rotator sling
- Sling comprises coracohumeral and superior GH ligaments
- There are many variants of the proximal biceps
- Accessory slips are common
Pathological Considerations:
- Biceps dislocation occurs with an interval or combined interval and subscapularis tear
- Subluxation can be incomplete and the biceps is perched on the medial margin of the groove
- If the groove is empty and the long head cannot be located medially, then rupture is likely
Careful examination of the more inferior positioned axial MR images or scanning more inferiorly with ultrasound will usually demonstrate the ruptured tendon end.