
Tenodesis has higher functional outcome; tenotomy has shorter OR times in LHBT treatment

Tenodesis has higher functional outcome; tenotomy has shorter OR times in LHBT treatment
Tenotomy or tenodesis for the long head of biceps lesions in shoulders: a systematic review and meta-analysis
PLoS One. 2015 Mar 18;10(3):e0121286Did you know you're eligible to earn 0.5 CME credits for reading this report? Click Here
Synopsis
Seven studies (3 randomized controlled trials; 4 cohort studies) were included in this meta-analysis comparing tenodesis and tenotomy in the management of patients with lesions of the long head of the biceps tendon. Meta-analysis was performed on Constant score, complications, satisfaction, and operative time. Qualitative assessment was undertaken for postoperative range of motion. Tenodesis demonstrated higher postoperative Constant scores and lower rates of cramp pain and Popeye deformity, while no significant differences were observed in satisfaction or range of motion. Operative time was significantly shorter for tenotomy.
Were the search methods used to find evidence (original research) on the primary question or questions stated?
Was the search for evidence reasonably comprehensive?
Were the criteria used for deciding which studies to include in the overview reported?
Was the bias in the selection of studies avoided?
Were the criteria used for assessing the validity of the included studies reported?
Was the validity of all of the studies referred to in the text assessed with use of appropriate criteria (either in selecting the studies for inclusion or in analyzing the studies that were cited)?
Were the methods used to combine the findings of the relevant studies (to reach a conclusion) reported?
Were the findings of the relevant studies combined appropriately relative to the primary question that the overview addresses?
Were the conclusions made by the author or authors supported by the data and or analysis reported in the overview?
How would you rate the scientific quality of this evidence?
Yes = 1
Uncertain = 0.5
Not Relevant = 0
No = 0
The Reporting Criteria Assessment evaluates the transparency with which authors report the methodological and trial characteristics of the trial within the publication. The assessment is divided into five categories which are presented below.
4/4
Introduction
4/4
Accessing Data
4/4
Analysing Data
4/4
Results
3/4
Discussion
Detsky AS, Naylor CD, O'Rourke K, McGeer AJ, L'Abbé KA. J Clin Epidemiol. 1992;45:255-65
The Fragility Index is a tool that aids in the interpretation of significant findings, providing a measure of strength for a result. The Fragility Index represents the number of consecutive events that need to be added to a dichotomous outcome to make the finding no longer significant. A small number represents a weaker finding and a large number represents a stronger finding.
Why was this study needed now?
Long head of the biceps tendon lesions are common, particularly as individuals age. Surgery is indicated if conservative treatment can not manage symptoms. Tenotomy or tenodesis may be performed and are typically successful, though both are associated with their own advantages and disadvantages. As such, surgeons are split between which should be performed, and whether one option is superior to the other.
What was the principal research question?
Is there a significant difference in clinical or functional outcome between tenotomy and tenodesis in patients with long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) lesions?
What were the important findings?
- Constant scores were significantly higher with tenodesis versus tenotomy (5 studies; MD 2.84 [95%CI 0.37, 5.31]; p=0.02).
- Qualitative assessment of range of motion from three studies was undertaken, with all reporting no significant difference between tenodesis and tenotomy groups.
- Tenodesis demonstrated significantly lower rates of cramp pain (4 studies; RR 0.51 [95%CI 0.26, 0.98]; p=0.04) and Popeye deformity (7 studies; RR 0.18 [ 95%CI 0.11, 0.30]; p<0.00001). Rate of satisfaction was similar between groups (4 studies; RR 1.00 [095%CI 0.92, 1.09]; p=0.94).
- Tenotomy demonstrated a significantly shorter operative time compared to tenodesis (3 studies; MD 10.54 [95%CI 8.96, 12.12]; p<0.00001).
What should I remember most?
Tenodesis demonstrated significantly higher postoperative Constant score and lower incidences of cramp pain and Popeye deformity compared to tenotomy in patients with long head of the biceps tendon lesions. Tenotomy took significantly less time to complete compared to tenodesis. Range of motion postoperative did not appear to significantly differ between tenodesis and tenotomy, and patients were generally satisfied with either surgical treatment.
How will this affect the care of my patients?
The results of this meta-analysis suggest that despite having increased surgical time, tenodesis may have improved functional outcomes after surgery for lesions of the long head of the biceps tendon, and may also reduce the risk of associated painful cramping and Popeye deformity. Additional, randomized controlled trials should be considerd to further add to the body of evidence comparing these two methods of treatment.
Learn about our AI Driven
High Impact Search Feature

The OE High Impact metric uses AI to determine the impact a study will have by considering the content of the article itself. Built using the latest advances of natural language processing techniques. OE High Impact predicts an article’s future number of citations than impact factor alone.
Continue
Join the Conversation
Please Login or Join to leave comments.