Surgical techniques for reconstruction of chronic insufficiency of the triceps

Revision Arthroplasty in the Challenging Elbow

Compared with hip and knee arthroplasty, total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has a higher complication rate and lower survivorship. Modern TEA implants most commonly require revision due to implant loosening, infection, and periprosthetic fracture. Concerns with revision TEA include handling of the soft tissues and possible necessity of flap coverage, triceps management, preservation of bone stock, and management of concurrent infection or fracture. In this review, we will discuss preoperative evaluation of the failed elbow arthroplasty, surgical approaches, techniques for revision, outcomes, and complications following revision total elbow arthroplasty.

Pedicled Functional Latissimus Flaps for Reconstruction of the Upper Extremity following Resection of Soft-Tissue Sarcomas

(1) Background: Resection of soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) of the upper extremity can result in substantial functional impairment with limited options for functional reconstruction. Free functional latissimus flaps have been utilized to restore function of the thigh; however, there is limited data on the use of latissimus flaps for functional reconstruction in the upper extremity. As such, we sought to evaluate our institutional experience with these flaps. (2) Methods: We reviewed ten (seven male; three female; and a mean age of 63 years) patients undergoing soft-tissue sarcoma resection involving the triceps (n = 4), biceps (n = 4), and deltoid (n = 2) reconstructed with a pedicled functional latissimus flap. All surviving patients had at least 1 year of follow-up, with a mean follow-up of 5 years. (3) Results: The mean elbow range of motion and shoulder elevation were 105° and 150°. The mean Musculoskeletal Tumor Society score was 88%, and the muscle strength was four. Four patients had a recipient site wound complication. There were no flap losses. One patient sustained a radiation-associated humerus fracture 5 years postoperatively, treated nonoperatively. (4) Conclusions: Although early complications are high, pedicled functional latissimus flaps allow for wound coverage, potential space obliteration, and restoration of function in the upper extremity following resection of large soft tissue sarcomas.

Histologic Evaluation of the Triceps Brachii Tendon Insertion: Implications for Triceps-Sparing Surgery

PURPOSE

Triceps detachment and olecranon osteotomy are 2 techniques used to enhance exposure in elbow surgery. Both the techniques can potentially add considerable morbidity and lengthen the recovery after surgery. Triceps-sparing surgery can potentially mitigate those issues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the triceps tendon insertion at a histologic level to help improve triceps-sparing surgical techniques used in elbow trauma and arthroplasty.

METHODS

Seventeen fresh-frozen cadaveric elbow specimens were collected. The olecranon and its soft tissue attachments were isolated. We performed gross measurements and sectioned the specimens for histologic evaluation in the saggital or coronal planes. The proximal-to-distal and medial-to-lateral dimensions of the tendon and the distance from the proximal tip of the olecranon to the proximal tendon insertion were measured microscopically on stained embedded sections.

RESULTS

The proximal-to-distal dimension of the triceps tendon insertion was less than previously reported, whereas the medial-to-lateral dimension was similar. The true distance from the tip of the olecranon to the proximal tendon insertion was greater than the previously reported distance obtained via gross measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

Gross measurement of the triceps tendon insertion overestimates and inaccurately represents the true insertional footprint. Gross measurement has been shown to demonstrate consistent disparity compared with histologic measurement. Histologic investigation provides a more accurate description.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The finding that the distance from the articular tip of the olecranon to the proximal tendon insertion is greater than previously reported may have clinical implications. A triceps split approach may allow more visualization and exposure of the posterior joint and, therefore, lessen the need for triceps detachment or olecranon osteotomy.

Reconstruction With Achilles Tendon Allograft Using the Keyhole Technique for Chronic Triceps Insufficiency After Total Elbow Arthroplasty

Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is associated with a relatively high incidence of chronic triceps insufficiency, but there is difficulty in treatment. This case series describes reconstruction with Achilles allografts using the keyhole technique in patients with postoperative chronic triceps insufficiency. Fourteen patients who underwent reconstruction for triceps insufficiency after TEA were included in the study. During this procedure, a keyhole-shaped osteotomy was performed on the proximal olecranon, and a fragment of the calcaneal allograft was shaped into a bone plug to fit the olecranon. The clinical outcomes were assessed in all patients 12 months after reconstruction and at last follow-up (range, 13-54 months). After 12 months, patients had a mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score of 84.3 (range, 75-100), and all achieved a marked improvement compared with before reconstruction (mean, 42.7; range, 20-75). Seven, 4, and 3 patients achieved excellent, good, and fair outcomes, respectively. The mean extension peak torque of the operated-on arm was 34.91 Nm (range, 16.3-63.9 Nm), and the percentage of extension peak torque of the operated-on arm to the opposite arm was from 14.5% preoperative to 76.2% 12 months postoperative. This case series suggests that triceps reconstruction with an Achilles tendon using the keyhole technique is a useful treatment option for triceps insufficiency after TEA. [Orthopedics. 2021;44(4):e498-e502.].

Revision total elbow replacement

The range of general and specific adverse event in total elbow arthroplasty is similar in principle and practice to all other revision prosthetic arthroplasty but with three particular challenges: loss of humeral and ulnar bone stock; insufficiency of the extensor 'mechanism'; and the management of the ulnar nerve. Total elbow replacement is presently performed for the management of complex non-reconstructable distal humeral fractures in osteoporotic bone, for post-traumatic arthropathy, and for medically managed inflammatory arthritides in which metaphyseal bone architecture is often preserved while the articular surface is degenerate. In all these conditions the patient often presents for revision total elbow arthroplasty with relevant co-morbidities and relevant musculoskeletal dysfunction (for example: ipsilateral shoulder, wrist, thumb or hand dysfunction). Infection is a universal concern for revision arthroplasty but where the soft tissue 'envelope' is compromised and already limited, as in the proximal forearm, it is difficult to eradicate, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Bone loss compromises subsequent implantation of a revision prosthesis, while failure to restore the working lengths of the humerus and ulna reduces the strength of the flexor and extensor compartment muscles for elbow motion. Failure to restore the continuity of the triceps aponeurosis - antebrachial fascia and triceps medial head-olecranon components of the extensor 'mechanism' also compromises extensor power. Prior triceps-dividing surgical approaches will determine the elasticity, and therefore pliability, of the extensor 'mechanism': this will have a role in determining how much gain in length of the humeral side can be safely achieved. The ulnar nerve, and its management during elbow arthroplasty, is a source of frequent concern, particularly for revision of an elbow arthroplasty undertaken for distal non-reconstructable humeral articular fractures or post-traumatic arthropathy, in which the position of the ulnar nerve is never anatomic. For these reasons revision total elbow replacement (RTER) is challenging: it requires experience with surgical exposures of the elbow including the major nerve trunks, familiarity with the restoration of bone stock, a range of prostheses and techniques for prosthetic implantation, the ability to achieve adequate soft tissue cover and primary closure, and a logical approach to individualised rehabilitation.

A unique case of bilateral triceps avulsion fracture in a patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism

Triceps tendon ruptures and avulsions are rare injuries and are often associated with systemic diseases. This paper illustrates the unique case of a 20-year-old female patient with pseudohypoparathyroidism, who sustained bilateral triceps avulsion fractures after a fall. She underwent suture anchor fixation, augmented with tension band suture as double row repair with excellent post-operative results. We describe the pathophysiology of this injury and the unique method of fixation, which can be an alternative effective method to repair these injuries.

The anconeus muscle revisited: double innervation pattern and its clinical implications

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study is to describe in detail the morphology and innervation pattern of the anconeus muscle, bearing in mind clinical implications such as iatrogenic injuries during surgical elbow approaches.

METHODS

A cadaveric study was performed; 56 elbows from 28 formalin-fixed cadavers belonging to the Anatomy Department of Universidad Complutense of Madrid were dissected. The triceps-anconeus nerve was located and dissected. A second innervation to the anconeus muscle from a branch of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) was occasionally detected. Taking the lateral epicondyle as a landmark, the entry points of both nerves in the muscle were referenced, the triceps-anconeus nerve was referenced at 0°, 30°, 45°, 70° and 90° of elbow flexion, and the PIN branch at 0°.

RESULTS

Anconeus muscle was present in all specimens. The triceps-anconeus nerve was present in all of the dissected elbows. A branch from PIN to the anconeus muscle was present in 38 of the 54 elbows (70.4%). There were statistically significant differences in all measurements regarding the specimens' gender, being higher for men.

CONCLUSIONS

There is evidence of a high frequency of a double innervation pattern for the anconeus muscle: the main branch of triceps-anconeus muscle depending on the radial nerve, which is liable to being damaged during posterior elbow approaches, and a secondary branch depending on the PIN. There are very few references to this finding in Anatomical literature and none with such a large sample size.

Revision Elbow Arthroplasty Using a Proximal Ulnar Allograft with Allograft Triceps for Combined Ulnar Bone Loss and Triceps Insufficiency

BACKGROUND

When revision elbow arthroplasty is required in the presence of structural proximal ulnar bone loss and triceps insufficiency, structural ulnar bone-grafting and triceps reconstruction are both required to reconstruct the skeleton and to restore active extension. We have developed a technique utilizing a structural proximal ulnar allograft with its attached triceps as an allograft-prosthetic composite (APC) to provide reconstruction of the proximal ulnar bone and deficient extensor mechanism with the same allograft.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2017, the senior author performed 10 revision elbow arthroplasties using a proximal ulnar allograft with its intact triceps tendon allograft. The allograft ulna was combined with an ulnar component in an APC fashion, whereas the remaining triceps was repaired to the triceps allograft. Indications for a revision surgical procedure included aseptic loosening in 4 elbows, periprosthetic ulnar fracture with component loosening in 2 elbows, and the second stage of a 2-stage reimplantation in 4 elbows. Two elbows also required humeral APCs due to associated structural humeral bone loss. Postoperatively, all elbows were immobilized in extension for 6 weeks. The mean follow-up time was 45 months (range, 24 to 76 months).

RESULTS

Revision elbow arthroplasty resulted in pain improvement in all elbows in a 10-point visual analog scale. The mean flexion-extension arc was 95°, the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 76 points (range, 45 to 95 points), and the mean triceps strength score was 4. There were 6 reoperations: 3 for humeral loosening, 1 for deep infection, 1 for fracture of the ulnar allograft, and 1 for wound debridement and closure. For the 8 elbows with an intact ulnar reconstruction, no ulnar components were radiographically loose, and the ulnar graft was considered radiographically intact and healed in 8 elbows.

CONCLUSIONS

Reconstruction of the proximal part of the ulna and triceps in failed elbow arthroplasties with structural ulnar bone loss can be effectively accomplished using a structural proximal ulnar allograft as an APC with the preserved triceps tendon for the extensor mechanism reconstruction, but the procedure is associated with an expected high reoperation rate, as is the case in complex revision elbow arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Distal Triceps Tendon Injuries

Distal triceps ruptures are uncommon, usually caused by a fall on an outstretched hand or a direct blow. Factors linked to injury include eccentric loading of a contracting triceps, anabolic steroid use, weightlifting, and traumatic laceration. Risk factors include local steroid injection, hyperparathyroidism, and olecranon bursitis. Initial diagnosis can be complicated by pain and swelling, and a palpable defect is not always present. Plain radiographs can be helpful. MRI confirms the diagnosis and directs treatment. Incomplete tears can be treated nonsurgically; complete tears are best managed surgically. Good to excellent restoration of function has been shown with surgical repair.

Triceps Tendon Ruptures: Risk Factors, Treatment, and Rehabilitation

Triceps tendon ruptures (TTRs) are rare and often occur as a result of falling on an outstretched hand, forceful eccentric contraction, direct trauma to the elbow, or lifting against resistance. TTRs are most commonly seen in middle-aged men, football players, and weightlifters. Radiography, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging may be utilized for diagnosis and to guide treatment. Acute partial TTRs may have good outcomes with nonoperative management. Surgery should be considered if nonoperative treatment is unsuccessful or if substantial musculotendinous retraction is present. Surgical repair is strongly recommended for complete TTRs.

Use of a Fascia Lata Autograft to Reconstruct a Large Triceps Tendon Defect After En-Bloc Resection of a Soft-Tissue Sarcoma: A Case Report

CASE

In this report, we present the case of a patient undergoing en-bloc resection of a large triceps soft-tissue sarcoma, requiring reconstruction of the triceps tendon including its distal insertion. We describe a surgical technique using fascia lata (FL) autograft to reconstruct the patient's extensor mechanism with long-term follow-up and functional results.

CONCLUSIONS

FL autograft is a viable option for reconstruction of large tendinous defects. It is simple and straightforward to harvest, inexpensive when compared with alternatives, with many potential applications.

Surgical Exposures for Total Elbow Arthroplasty

Indications for total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) were traditionally reserved for patients with advanced rheumatoid disease and posttraumatic conditions of the elbow. The indications have expanded for TEA to include patients with acute elbow trauma, dysfunctional instability, and end-stage osteoarthritis. Many of these patients are younger and place a greater demand on their TEA. This evolution of TEA use combined with the concern of soft tissue handling and triceps function has led to increased interest regarding surgical exposure for TEA. Three generalized approaches to TEA are predicated on the handling of the triceps tendon: triceps reflecting, triceps splitting, and triceps sparing. Each of these approaches has its own inherent advantages and disadvantages. As indications grow for TEA and the possibility of revision surgery increases with use in younger, higher demand patients, it is important for treating surgeons to use these various exposures so that they are capable of treating patients in a variety of settings.

Triceps Repair and Restoration of Triceps Footprint With Anchorless Suture Fixation

Triceps tendon rupture is an uncommon yet potentially devastating injury affecting patients over a broad demographic. Surgical treatment is essential to restore upper extremity functional status, and a vast array of techniques has been implemented with different fixation devices including suture buttons, intraosseous anchors, and suture repairs. Outcomes of distal triceps tendon repair have demonstrated nearly full return of functional capacity. Complications include infection, ulnar nerve neuropathy, arthrofibrosis, flexion contracture, hardware irritation, and most commonly, repair failure. We illustrate a triceps repair technique with suture fixation that restores the tendinous footprint without need of an adjunctive device.

Results of primary repair of distal triceps tendon ruptures in a general population: a multicentre study

Aims

The aim of the study was to analyze the results of primary tendon reinsertion in acute and chronic distal triceps tendon ruptures (DTTRs) in the general population.

Patients and Methods

A total of 28 patients were operated on for primary DTTR reinsertions, including 21 male patients and seven female patients with a mean age of 45 years (14 to 76). Of these patients, 23 sustained an acute DTTR and five had a chronic injury. One patient had a non-simultaneous bilateral DTTR. Seven patients had DTTR-associated ipsilateral fracture or dislocation. Comorbidities were present in four patients. Surgical treatment included transosseous and suture-anchors reinsertion in 22 and seven DTTRs, respectively. The clinical evaluation was performed using Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), the modified American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (m-ASES), the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (QuickDASH), and the Medical Research Council (MRC) Scale.

Results

A total of 27 patients (28 DTTRs) were available for review at a mean of 47.5 months (12 to 204). The mean MEPS, QuickDASH, and m-ASES scores were 94 (60 to 100), 10 (0 to 52), and 94 (58 to 100), respectively. Satisfactory results were observed in 26 cases (93%). Muscle strength was 5/5 and 4/5 in 18 and ten DTTRs, respectively. One patient with chronic renal failure experienced a traumatic rerupture of distal triceps. One patient (1 DTTR) experienced mild elbow stiffness.

Conclusion

Primary repair of acute and chronic DTTRs in a general population yields satisfactory results in the majority of patients with a low rerupture rate. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:610-16.

Triceps tendon rupture: repair and rehabilitation

Triceps tendon ruptures are rare injuries and are frequently missed on initial presentation to the emergency department. In cases of complete rupture, surgical repair is recommended but no guidelines exist on the optimum reconstructive technique or rehabilitation. We present a surgical technique and rehabilitation programme for the management of these injuries. A midline posterior incision is performed, the ruptured triceps tendon is identified and mobilized, and the tendon footprint is prepared. The tendon is then repaired using bone suture anchors, with a parachute technique, and held in 40° of flexion. The rehabilitation programme is divided into five phases, over a period of 12 weeks. Range of movement is gradually increased in a brace for the first 6 weeks. Rehabilitation is gradually increase in intensity, progressing from isometric extension exercises to weight-resisted exercises, and finally plyometrics and throwing exercises. Our surgical technique provides a solid tendon repair without the need for further metalwork removal. The graduated rehabilitation programme also helps to protect the integrity of the repair at the same time as enabling patients to gradually increase the strength of the triceps tendon and ultimately return to sport activities.

A treatment algorithm for the management of distal triceps ruptures

Rupture of the distal triceps brachii muscle is a relatively rare, but potentially troublesome injury. Recent literature has increased awareness of the injury and highlighted the importance of accurate diagnosis and prompt appropriate treatment of these injuries. The history, physical examination findings, and imaging studies are key to determine complete versus partial rupture of the distal triceps. We propose a treatment algorithm based on the chronicity of the injury and associated tendon quality. Such a guide can help surgeons navigate the most appropriate treatment and be equipped with the surgical tools to provide the best surgical result.

Diagnosis and treatment of triceps tendon injuries: a review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To elucidate mechanism of injury, nonoperative protocols, surgical techniques, rehabilitation schedules, and return to sports guidelines for partial and complete triceps tendon injuries.

DATA SOURCES

The PubMed and OVID databases were searched in 2010 and peer-reviewed English language articles in 2011.

MAIN RESULTS

After a fall on an outstretched hand, direct trauma on the elbow, or lifting against resistance, patients often present with pain and weakness of extension. Examination may reveal a palpable tendon gap, and radiographs may reveal a Flake sign. Acute partial injuries have positive outcomes with immobilization in 30-degree flexion for 4 to 6 weeks. Primary repair for complete rupture can restore normal extensor function after 3 to 4 months. Reconstruction returns normal extensor function up to 4 years. Most authors support postoperative immobilization for 2 to 3 weeks at 30- to 40-degree flexion, flexion block bracing for an additional 3 weeks, and unrestricted activity at 6 months. Athletes may be able to return to sports after 4 to 5 weeks of recovery from a partial injury, but return may be delayed if operative tendon repair is performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute partial triceps tendon injuries may be managed conservatively at first and should be repaired primarily if this fails or if presentation is delayed. Reconstruction should first use the anconeus rotation technique. If the anconeus is devitalized, the Achilles tendon may be the allograft of choice.

Triceps insufficiency after the treatment of deep infection following total elbow replacement

Treatment of an infected total elbow replacement (TER) is often successful in eradicating or suppressing the infection. However, the extensor mechanism may be compromised by both the infection and the surgery. The goal of this study was to assess triceps function in patients treated for deep infection complicating a TER. Between 1976 and 2007 a total of 217 TERs in 207 patients were treated for infection of a TER at our institution. Superficial infections and those that underwent resection arthroplasty were excluded, leaving 93 TERs. Triceps function was assessed by examination and a questionnaire. Outcome was measured using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).

Triceps weakness was identified in 51 TERs (49 patients, 55%). At a mean follow-up of five years (0.8 to 34), the extensor mechanism was intact in 13 patients, with the remaining 38 having bone or soft-tissue loss. The mean MEPS was 70 points (5 to 100), with a mean functional score of 18 (0 to 25) of a possible 25 points.

Infection following TER can often be eradicated; however, triceps weakness occurs in more than half of the patients and may represent a major functional problem.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2014;96-B:82–7.

Réparation d'une rupture complète du triceps brachial par greffe tendineuse au DIDT. À propos d'un cas et revue de la littérature

The authors report the rare case of an athlete having a complete rupture of the distal triceps tendon associated with severe chronic degenerative pathology of the triceps tendon induced by forced weight-lifting exercises and repetitive corticosteroid injections. Reconstruction of the ruptured triceps was possible using autogenous semi-tendinous and gracilis tendons. The good functional outcome obtained with this technique and the analysis of the retrospective chart review suggest that when direct reattachment is impossible (tendon retraction or loss of tendon in post-traumatic or degenerative injury) or not sufficient (weakness after total elbow arthroplasty surgery), the use of an autogenous semi-tendinous and gracilis tendons permits a good functional outcome.