Background: Diagnosis of complete distal biceps tendon rupture (DBTR) is frequently missed or delayed on clinical examination. No single clinical test, including MRI, has demonstrated 100% efficacy in assessing the integrity of the distal biceps tendon.
Hypothesis: Combining 3 validated clinical tests for identifying complete rupture can maximize a true-positive diagnosis for complete DBTR without the need for confirmatory soft tissue imaging when performed in concert with other important factors from the history and clinical examination.
Study design: Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.
Methods: The hook test, the passive forearm pronation (PFP) test, and the biceps crease interval (BCI) test were applied in sequence in conjunction with a standard patient history and physical examination on 48 patients with suspected distal biceps tendon injuries. If results on all 3 special tests were positive for complete rupture, the patient was referred for surgical repair; diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively. If results on all 3 special tests were negative, diagnosis was confirmed with soft tissue imaging and patients were managed nonoperatively. If results of the 3 tests were not in agreement, soft tissue imaging was used to clarify the disagreement and to confirm the diagnosis.
Results: Thirty-five patients had unequivocal results based on history, physical examination, and special tests. Thirty-two tested in agreement positive for complete rupture, which were confirmed intraoperatively. Three tested in agreement negative, with subsequent imaging confirming partial rupture. Thirteen patients had equivocal special test results; soft tissue imaging suggested complete rupture in 10 and partial rupture in 3.
Conclusion: Application in sequence of the hook test, the PFP test, and the BCI test results in 100% sensitivity and specificity when the outcomes on all 3 special tests are in agreement.
Keywords: avulsion; distal biceps; elbow; tendon rupture.