Repair of a Proximal Hamstring Rupture in a 14-Year-Old Patient: A Case Report

Proximal hamstring tendon ruptures are rare in children and adolescents. The typical pediatric hamstring injury pattern involves an apophyseal avulsion fracture. We present the case of a 14-year-old male with a widely displaced ischial avulsion fracture and a bony fragment that was too small to allow for bony fixation. The patient presented with left-buttock pain and ecchymosis, as well as tenderness at the ischial tuberosity, following an injury sustained while running 2 weeks prior. Imaging demonstrated an avulsion of the proximal hamstrings with a 4-mm bony fragment, too small to allow for repair. The patient underwent primary repair using two 3-mm suture anchors. The bony fragment was not excised but incorporated into the repair. Although most proximal hamstring injuries in children and adolescents are treated non-operatively, operative treatment may confer a small but clinically important difference in rates of healing and return to play in adolescent athletes. This case demonstrates successful treatment of a proximal hamstring rupture with suture anchor fixation, which may be considered for pediatric and adolescent displaced avulsion fractures when the bony fragment is too small to allow for bony fixation.     

Acute proximal hamstring rupture

Hamstring strain is common in athletes, and both diagnosis and surgical treatment of this injury are becoming more common. Nonsurgical treatment of complete ruptures has resulted in complications such as muscle weakness and sciatic neuralgia. Surgical treatment recently has been advocated to repair the complete rupture of the hamstring tendons from the ischial tuberosity. Surgical repair involves a transverse incision in the gluteal crease, protection of the sciatic nerve, mobilization of the ruptured tendons, and repair to the ischial tuberosity with the use of suture anchors. Reports in the literature of surgical treatment of proximal hamstring rupture are few, and most series have had a relatively small number of patients. Surgical repair results project 58% to 85% rate of return to function and sports activity, near normal strength, and decreased pain.     

Spätrekonstruktion der distalen Bizepssehnenruptur mit Fasci-lata-Graft und Mitek-Ankern

Ruptures of the distal biceps tendon are rare but well documented. A technique for reinserting the distal biceps tendon into the radial tuberosity with two Mitek anchors and a fascia lata graft is presented and illustrated by a case report. Ectopic ossification as a complication after the procedure is discussed as well as the final outcome. It could be concluded that late reconstruction of the distal biceps tendon rupture with fascia lata and Mitek anchors is a safe procedure that can be advocated in a restricted number of cases where acute injury has been overlooked.     

Two patients with a complete proximal rupture of the hamstring

Two men visited our Emergency Room because of a water-ski-accident. At physical examination, there was hematoma at the upper leg with loss of strength at extension of the hip and flexion of the knee. Both patients had a palpable gap just distal of the ischial tuberosity. Further imaging by sonography and MR-scan showed a rupture of the proximal hamstring tendon. Treatment was operative refixation of the hamstring tendons at the ischial tuberosity. Aftertreatment consisted of brace for 4 weeks after operation. Both patients returned to their pre-operatively sports, though at a lower level. Surgical treatment of a complete proximal rupture of the hamstrings is recommended in case of sportive patients.     

Repair of distal biceps tendon rupture with the Biotenodesis screw

Background Distal biceps tendon ruptures are uncommon injuries with only around 300 cases reported in the literature. Current management tends to favour anatomical reinsertion of the tendon into the radial tuberosity, especially in young and active individuals. These injuries are commonly repaired using either a single anterior incision with suture anchors or the Boyd-Anderson dual incision technique.Case report We report the use of a bioabsorbable interference screw for the repair of distal biceps tendon rupture using a minimal incision technique. In this technique the avulsed tendon and a bioabsorbable screw are secured in a drill hole on the radial tuberosity using whip stitch and fibre wire sutures according to Biotenodesis system guidelines.Conclusion The technique described requires minimal volar dissection that is associated with a reduced number of synostosis and posterior interosseous nerve injuries. The bioabsorbable interference screw has all the advantages of being biodegradable and has been shown to have greater pullout strength than suture anchors. It is also a reasonable alternative to titanium screws in terms of primary fixation strength. The strong fixation provided allows early active motion and return to previous activities as seen in our case.     

Acute distal biceps tendon rupture--a new surgical technique using a de-tensioning suture to brachialis

Acute distal biceps rupture is a devastating injury in the young athlete and surgical repair offers the only chance of a full recovery. We report a new surgical technique used in 14 cases of acute distal tendon rupture in which the 'suture anchor technique' and a de-tensioning suture was employed. In this procedure the distal end of the biceps is re-attached to the radial tuberosity using a sliding whip stitch suture and the proximal part of the distal tendon repair attached to the underlying brachialis muscle with absorbable sutures. This restores correct anatomical alignment and isometric pull on the distal tendon and de-tensions the repair in the early post-operative period, allowing early rehabilitation and an early return to activity. In all cases patients regained a full pre-injury level of sporting activity at a mean period of 6.2 months (2-9 months).     

Hamstring injuries

Hamstring injuries are a frequent injury in athletes. Proximal injuries are common, ranging from strain to complete tear. Strains are managed nonoperatively, with rest followed by progressive stretching and strengthening. Reinjury is a concern. High grade complete tears are better managed surgically, with reattachment to the injured tendon or ischial tuberosity. Distal hamstring injury is usually associated with other knee injuries, and isolated injury is rare.     

Anatomical repair of distal biceps brachii tendon rupture through a limited anterior approach

To avoid the extended anterior or the two-incision approach to the radius, we present a limited anterior approach for anatomical reattachment at the radial tuberosity of the distal biceps brachii tendon complete rupture using suture anchors. Our clinical experience in nine patients showed that secure fixation obtained with the suture anchors, limited surgical approach and anatomical reconstruction allow for early mobilization and rapid return of function, and provide excellent long-term results with acceptable complications. We suggest using the limited anterior approach in patients with early (less than 6 weeks) distal biceps brachii tendon rupture.     

Proximal Hamstring Tears: Endoscopic Hamstring Repair

Proximal hamstring tears are common among athletes, especially in sports involving eccentric lengthening during forced hip flexion and knee extension, such as hurdles or water skiing. Tears are described by timing (acute [<1 month] or chronic) and severity (partial or complete). Complete tears are easily identified with magnetic resonance imaging; however, partial tears may be subtle and potentially missed. The spectrum of pathology associated with acute injuries ranges from minor strains to complete tears or avulsions. Acute tears commonly present as pain and bruising over the posterior thigh along with weakness with active knee flexion and often a sensation of instability of the lower extremity. Chronic injuries typically present with ischial pain associated with repetitive activities, and the spectrum includes chronic tendinopathies, ischial bursitis, partial tears, and nonoperatively treated complete tears. Nonoperative treatment is recommended in the setting of low-grade partial tears and insertional tendinosis. However, failure of nonoperative treatment of partial tears may benefit from surgical debridement and repair. Further, surgical repair of complete tears with retraction is usually recommended for active patients. Historically, surgical treatment has been limited to open surgical approaches, although endoscopic management of proximal hamstring tears and chronic ischial bursitis is an option. Our endoscopic technique employs the use of two anchors, double loaded with high-strength suture, and may support a faster recovery due to decreased surgical morbidity. It is important to note that some patients may not be candidates for this endoscopic repair as a result of several factors, including prior chronic and retracted tears, as well as those with altered regional tissue planes due to prior surgical repair.     

Repair of distal biceps tendon rupture with suture anchors and a single anterior incision: a review of six cases

We present a retrospective review of six cases of distal biceps tendon repair with a mean follow-up of 1 year. All patients were men aged between 34 and 62 years. In all patients, the injury was sustained with application of an unanticipated large load to the flexed arm. All but one patient was operated within a week of the injury. All six cases were operated through a single anterior incision and the torn tendon ends fixed to the radial tuberosity with implantable suture anchors. All patients were reviewed subjectively and objectively. All but one returned to preinjury activity within 6 months. One patient developed superficial radial nerve neurapraxia, which recovered, and one developed a superficial wound infection, which required treatment with oral antibiotics and surgical excision of the sinus. We believe that operative repair of distal biceps tendon rupture using a single anterior incision and suture anchors is a safe and effective method of treating theses injuries.     

Late reconstruction of chronic distal biceps tendon ruptures using fascia lata autograft and suture anchor fixation

Distal biceps tendon ruptures are a rare injury, and surgical reconstruction is typically recommended for chronic ruptures. There is no consensus regarding the most appropriate reconstruction technique. We present our experience with reconstruction of chronic distal biceps tendon ruptures with fascia lata autograft, secured to the bicipital tuberosity with suture anchors. A single anterior incision is used for all patients. Tension is set with the elbow in 50 degrees of flexion. Ninety-two percent of our patients reported improvement in elbow flexion and supination and were pleased with the surgery. Range of motion and isokinetic flexion and supination strength after this procedure was comparable with other distal biceps tendon reconstruction options using tendon grafts and suture anchor fixation from a single anterior approach. Furthermore, common complications associated with distal biceps tendon repair and reconstruction can be avoided with this technique. We therefore feel that this technique is a viable surgical treatment alternative with good subjective and objective outcomes.Level of Evidence: Level IV.     

Single-incision repair of acute distal biceps ruptures by use of suture anchors

The purpose of this study is to report the results of a single limited-incision technique for repair of acute distal biceps ruptures by use of suture anchors. Sixty consecutive patients underwent distal biceps repair after an acute rupture between January 1997 and January 2001 by use of a limited antecubital incision and suture anchors. Fifty-three patients could be evaluated at a mean follow-up of 38.1 months. A limited transverse incision was made in the antecubital fossa. The retracted biceps tendon end was identified, retrieved, and lightly debrided. Two suture anchors were placed in the radial tuberosity, and the tendon was reapproximated. Final follow-up consisted of physical examination, radiographs, and Andrews-Carson elbow score tabulations. According to the Andrews-Carson scores, there were 46 excellent and 7 good results. In 2 patients, heterotopic ossification developed that resulted in a mild loss of forearm rotation and mild pain. In 1 patient, a temporary radial nerve palsy developed, which resolved completely within 8 weeks. Repair of acute distal biceps tears via a limited antecubital incision and suture anchors is a safe, effective technique.     

Anatomical study of the proximal origin of hamstring muscles

Purpose

It is relatively well accepted that the long head of the biceps femoris and the semitendinosus both originate from the ischial tuberosity as a common tendon. However, it is also widely known that the biceps femoris is consistently injured more than the semitendinosus. The purpose of this study was to examine the origins of the hamstring muscles, to find an anatomic basis for diagnosis and treatment of injuries of the posterior thigh regions.

Materials and methods

Twenty-eight hips of fourteen adult Japanese cadavers were used in this study. In twenty hips of ten cadavers, the positional relationships among the origins on the ischial tuberosity were examined. In eight hips of four cadavers, histological examination of the origins of the hamstrings was also performed.

Results

The origin of the long head of the biceps femoris adjoined that of the semitendinosus. In the proximal regions of these muscles, the long head consisted of the tendinous part; however, the semitendinosus mainly consisted of the muscular part. Some of the fibers of the biceps tendon extended to fuse with the sacrotuberous ligament. The semimembranosus muscle broadly originated from the lateral surface of the ischial tuberosity.

Conclusion

The origins of the long head of the biceps femoris and the semitendinosus are found to be almost independent, and the tendon of the long head is partly fused with the sacrotuberous ligament. The high incidence of injuries to the long head of the biceps femoris could be explained by these anatomical configurations.     

Avulsion fractures of the lesser tuberosity of the humerus in adolescents: review of the literature and case report

Isolated fracture of the lesser tuberosity is an unusual phenomenon in children and adolescents. These injuries are difficult to diagnose acutely and often present as chronic shoulder pain. In this study, we report on 1 case of a displaced lesser tuberosity apophysis avulsion fracture in an adolescent treated with open reduction and internal fixation, as well as a review of the literature. A 14-year-old adolescent male presented to the senior surgeon complaining of left shoulder pain and weakness 10 days after a wrestling injury. He was diagnosed with a displaced, isolated fracture of the lesser tuberosity apophysis for which he underwent open reduction and internal fixation. A combination of sutures passed through drill holes in the proximal humerus and bioabsorbable suture tacks were used to anatomically fix the lesser tuberosity fragment and subscapularis tendon. Postoperatively, he underwent a progressive physical therapy regimen. At 4 months follow-up, he had full range of motion, complete return of strength, and returned to competitive athletics. We report here on the successful surgical treatment of a fracture of the lesser tuberosity apophysis in an adolescent.     

Pectoralis major transosseous equivalent repair with knotless anchors: Technical note and literature review

Introduction:Rupture of the pectoralis major (PM) tendon was initially described almost 2 centuries ago, but most of the reported injuries have occurred within the last 30 years. Options for repair have varied widely. The most common methods for repair depend on either transosseous sutures or suture anchors for fixation. Transosseous suture repair allows for docking the tendon into a trough at its anatomic insertion, but risks cortical breakage during suture passing. Our experience has confirmed the value and potential advantages of anchors for a secure fixation.Aims:To describe a variation of repair using knotless suture anchors and a burred trough to dock the tendon into its anatomic insertion.Conclusion:We describe a technique of a transosseous equivalent PM repair technique. To our knowledge, this is the first paper describing such a repair technique for PM rupture.     

Rates of complications in Achilles tendon rupture repair using absorbable and nonabsorbable suture material; A systematic review

BackgroundThe impact of suture type on tensile strength, re-rupture rates and infection risk in Achilles tendon rupture repair is not been well established. The aim of this review is to evaluate existing literature on the associated risk of postoperative infection with absorbable and non-absorbable suture materials in Achilles tendon rupture repair.MethodsA systematic review of search databases PubMed; Google Scholar; and OVID Medline was made to identify studies related to complications associated with Achilles tendon rupture repair. PRISMA guidelines were utilised for this review. Meta-analysis was used to compare rupture rates and infections following rupture repair.Results12 studies with a total of 460 patients, 230 in both nonabsorbable and absorbable suture groups were included for analysis. Risk of wound complications was significantly higher in patients with non-absorbable sutures (p < 0.001).ConclusionNonabsorbable braided sutures is associated with the highest risk of postoperative wound complications following Achilles tendon rupture repair.     

Use of patellar allograft to reconstruct a patellar tendon-deficient knee after total joint arthroplasty

A catastrophic complication after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is rupture of the patellar tendon. Several techniques for treatment have been described, including cast immobilization with or without operative repair, the use of a semitendinosus, fascia lata, or hamstring tendon autogenous graft, the use of a Dacron 4-mm vascular graft (U.S. Catheter and Instrument, Glen Falls, NY), the use of bovine xenograft and even transplantation of an entire allograft extensor mechanism. Treatment results of patellar tendon rupture after TKA can be discouraging. Altered tissue quality secondary to connective tissue diseases, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus erythematosus, secondary hyperparathyroidism, or concurrent steroid medications contributes to poor results. Additionally, no one treatment has provided consistent clinical success. Successful treatment of a patient with a ruptured patellar tendon after TKA using the bone-patellar tendon-bone allograft commonly used for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is reported.     

Reattachment of the distal tendon of biceps: factors affecting the failure strength of the repair

Operative fixation is the treatment of choice for a rupture of the distal tendon of biceps. A variety of techniques have been described including transosseous sutures and suture anchors. The poor quality of the bone of the radial tuberosity might affect the load to failure of the tendon repair in early rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to determine the loads to failure of different techniques of fixation and to investigate their association with the bone mineral density of the radial tuberosity. Peripheral quantitative computed tomography was carried out to measure the trabecular and cortical bone mineral density of the radial tuberosity in 40 cadaver specimens. The loads to failure in four different techniques of fixation were determined. The Endobutton-based method showed the highest failure load at 270 N (sd 22) (p < 0.05). The mean failure load of the transosseous suture technique was 210 N (sd 66) and that of the TwinFix-QuickT 5.0 mm was 57 N (sd 22), significantly lower than those of all other repairs (p < 0.05). No significant correlation was seen between bone mineral density and loads to failure. The transosseous technique is an easy and cost-saving procedure for fixation of the distal biceps tendon. TwinFix-QuickT 5.0 mm had significantly lower failure loads, which might affect early rehabilitation, particularly in older patients.     

Surgical treatment for partial rupture of the distal biceps tendon using palmaris longus tendon graft: A case report

We report a case of a partial rupture of the distal biceps tendon that was surgically treated using a palmaris longus tendon graft. A 58-year-old man complained of increasing pain with resisted elbow flexion and supination in the antecubital fossa. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed the irregularity of a distal attachment of the biceps brachii and peripheral signal changes. We diagnosed a partial rupture of the distal biceps tendon. Because conservative treatment failed, surgical treatment was performed through a single anterior approach. The insertion of the tendon was partially ruptured at the radial tuberosity. After the involved site was debrided, the palmaris longus tendon was grafted with suture anchors to reinforce the remaining tendon. Postoperative immobilization was not performed, and all moves were freed after 3 weeks. At the 6-year postoperative follow-up, the patient no longer experienced pain and returned to his original job without any limitations.     

Interwoven wire suture with fascia lata-plasty in the treatment of subcutaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon--an obsolete method?

Lately there has been an increased incidence of rupture of the Achilles tendon following the general increase in mass sports. Surgery is the treatment of choice, and various methods are being described. We have been using the wire suture method with fascia lata plasty for more then twenty years. The rate of infection is 3.8% and that of rerupture 1.2%, figures that correspond to those stated for other surgical methods. Moreover, 87% of the patients were very satisfied with the result of the operation; they are fit for work without any restriction, and some of them even practise their sports activities as before. For this reason we consider that wire suturing with fascia lata plasty is by no means obsolete in the treatment of rupture of the Achilles tendon.