Ultrasound guided ultra-minimally invasive long head of the biceps tendon release: Anatomic and cadaver study

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe in volunteers and cadavers the location of the vascular structures at risk for performing a new safe and effective ultra-minimally invasive ultrasound guided long head of the biceps tendon (LHBT) release. Methods: First, with Doppler ultrasound, we defined the position of the acromial artery from our distal cutting point, on the posterior margin of the LHBT. Second, we performed an ultra-minimally invasive ultrasound guided LHBT release in cadavers. We described the stump and reported safety (no rotator cuff, vascular, or articular damages) and efficacy (tendon release rate). Results: In 20 volunteers, the mean distance from the distal cutting point to the acromial artery was 0.9 ± 0.1 cm (range, 0.3–1.6). Ultra-minimally invasive LHBT release was safe and fully effective in the eight specimens. The proximal stump measured a mean of 2.8 cm (range, 1.9–4). There were no complications. Conclusions: A safe and effective ultra-minimally invasive ultrasound guided LHBT release in cadavers is feasible through an anterior approach.