Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis & Tenotomy
Arthroscopic release and relocation of the long head of biceps tendon — resolving persistent anterior shoulder pain caused by biceps tendon inflammation, instability, or partial tearing.
What is Arthroscopic Biceps Tenodesis & Tenotomy?
The long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) originates inside the shoulder joint at the superior glenoid and travels through the bicipital groove on the humerus. When inflamed, partially torn, or subluxed from its groove, the LHBT is a common cause of anterior shoulder pain that does not resolve with physiotherapy or injections. Two surgical options exist: biceps tenotomy (simple release of the tendon from its attachment — quick, effective, preferred in older patients) and biceps tenodesis (release and reattachment of the tendon to the humerus at a lower level — preserving biceps length and strength, preferred in younger, active patients who are concerned about the cosmetic 'Popeye' deformity of a simple tenotomy).
How the Procedure Works
Diagnostic Arthroscopy
The LHBT is fully inspected — degree of tendinitis, tearing, subluxation, and its relationship to any SLAP tear are documented.
Tenotomy (if selected)
The LHBT is released from its superior glenoid origin with an arthroscopic electrocautery or scissors — the tendon retracts and the pain source is eliminated immediately.
Tenodesis — Release
For tenodesis, the tendon is released intra-articularly as above and retrieved in the subpectoral or bicipital groove region.
Tenodesis — Reattachment
The retrieved tendon is secured to the humerus using a bioabsorbable screw, suture anchor, or cortical button — restoring biceps length and tension.
Recovery
Sling for 2–4 weeks (tenotomy) or 4–6 weeks (tenodesis); progressive physiotherapy follows.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Resolves persistent anterior shoulder pain from LHBT pathology
- →Day-care procedure — no overnight admission required
- →Tenotomy option: immediate relief with minimal recovery time
- →Tenodesis option: preserves biceps contour, strength, and supination power
- →Frequently combined with rotator cuff repair or impingement decompression
- →Excellent patient satisfaction in appropriately selected cases
"Biceps tendon problems are underdiagnosed as a cause of shoulder pain. When the tendon is the culprit, releasing or relocating it is quick, effective, and transformative — patients are often amazed that a pain they have had for years is gone after a 30-minute procedure."
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Satish Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.