Biceps Tenodesis & SLAP Tear Repair
Targeted surgical relief for chronic anterior shoulder pain, bicipital groove tendinitis, subluxation, and superior labral tears.
Understanding the Procedure
The long head of the biceps tendon travels through a tight bony groove in the front of the shoulder before inserting into the superior labrum. It is a frequent source of refractory anterior shoulder pain due to tenosynovitis, partial tearing, or instability in the bicipital groove.
Biceps tenodesis releases the diseased intra-articular tendon and securely re-anchors it outside the joint into the humerus using an interference screw or suture anchor. This eliminates anterior joint pinching while preserving normal muscle shape, elbow flexion strength, and forearm supination power.
Download Rehabilitation Protocol
Official post-operative physical therapy guidelines, range of motion envelopes, and milestone criteria (integrated with the arthroscopic rotator cuff & anterior tenodesis pathway):
Download Tenodesis & Cuff Protocol (PDF) ↓Phased Rehabilitation Milestones
Tendon Anchor Protection
Sling worn for 4 weeks. Gentle passive shoulder elevation. No resisted elbow flexion or heavy pulling.
Active ROM Progression
Discontinue sling. Active unassisted shoulder and elbow movement. Light daily functional tasks.
Progressive Biceps Loading
Light resistance bands and gentle dumbbell curls (1-3 lbs). Periscapular strengthening.
Unrestricted Strength Return
Full return to overhead athletics, heavy manual labor, and gym training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Biceps tenodesis (surgically reattaching the biceps tendon to the arm bone) is performed as an outpatient procedure. You will return home the same day to begin your recovery.
You will typically wear a protective sling for 4 weeks to allow the tendon to heal securely to the bone without tension.
Gentle passive motion for your elbow and wrist begins within days. Active strengthening of the biceps is gradually introduced after 4 to 6 weeks.
Driving can resume once the sling is removed and you are off narcotic medications (around 4 weeks). Desk work can restart in 1 to 2 weeks, while manual labor requires 3 to 4 months.
You can return to full athletic lifting and unrestricted sports by 3 to 4 months post-operatively, provided strength is fully restored.
Tenotomy (cutting the biceps tendon) provides fast pain relief but may cause a slight arm bulge ('Popeye deformity'). Tenodesis (reattaching the tendon to the bone) preserves normal muscle aesthetics and twisting power.
Expert Surgical Care for Your Shoulder
Take the next step toward restoring mobility and eliminating shoulder pain. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Veillette to discuss advanced arthroscopic and reconstructive treatment options.