What is Triceps Repair?
Triceps repair is a surgical procedure that involves the repair of a ruptured (torn) triceps tendon. A tendon is a tough band of fibrous tissue which connects muscle to bone and works together with muscles in moving your arms, fingers, legs, and toes. The triceps tendons connect the triceps muscles to the shoulder blade and elbow in your arm. Rupture of the triceps tendon is a rare injury that occurs as a result of the detachment of the triceps tendon from the attached bone. These tendons can rupture with lifting heavy weights, during contact sports or after a fall on an outstretched arm.
What are the Indications for Triceps Repair?
Triceps repair is indicated for partial or complete rupture of the triceps tendons after trauma or injury. It is also indicated for repairing acute (injuries occurring within four weeks) or chronic (injuries occurring after four weeks) triceps tendon injuries. Distal triceps tendon rupture occurs due to the detachment of the triceps tendon connecting the triceps muscles to the elbow. These injuries require immediate medical attention and surgical repair to restore the activity of the triceps muscles.
What Does the Surgical Procedure for Triceps Repair Involve?
Medications through an intravenous line will be administered to help you relax. The procedure will be performed under general or regional anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the surgery.
- Your surgeon will make an incision behind the elbow and drill holes into the end of the ulna (bone in the forearm).
- The ends of the torn tendons will then be inserted through the holes and stitched. Your surgeon may also use screws and buttons to attach the tendon to the bone.
- For chronic tendon injuries, a tendon or a hard tissue from another part of the body may be used to lengthen the existing short tendon.
- After the tendon is attached to the bone, it is sutured and the incisions are closed with surgical tapes or bandages.
What Does Postoperative Care for Triceps Repair Involve?
After the procedure, a cast or splint is placed on the elbow to prevent movement and protect the tendon while it heals. After 6 to 8 weeks of surgery, your physical therapist will teach you exercises to be performed at home for improving strength and range of motion in your arm. Contact your doctor if you have fever, swelling, redness, or drainage from the incision.
What are the Risks and Complications of Triceps Repair?
As with any surgical procedure, triceps repair involves certain potential risks and complications. They include:
- Bleeding and infection at the surgical site
- Damage to the other parts of the arm, such as muscles, bones, nerves or blood vessels
- Restricted movement of the arm
- Difficulty in resuming usual activities or sports
