Clinically Relevant Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Proximal Biceps

Clin Sports Med. 2016 Jan;35(1):1-18. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2015.08.005. Epub 2015 Oct 17.

Abstract

The biceps-labral complex represents the shared anatomic and clinical features of the biceps and labrum. It has 3 clinically relevant zones: inside, the superior labrum and the biceps anchor; junction, the intra-articular portion of the long head of the biceps tendon and its stabilizing pulley; and bicipital tunnel, the extra-articular long head of the biceps tendon from the articular margin through the subpectoral region and its fibro-osseous confinement. By embracing this more comprehensive understanding of the anatomy, pathoanatomy, and functional implications, clinicians can proceed with greater confidence and can more accurately select patient-specific surgical techniques.

Keywords: Biceps-labral complex; Bicipital tunnel; Proximal biceps.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Cadaver
  • Humans
  • Shoulder Joint / anatomy & histology*
  • Shoulder Joint / pathology
  • Shoulder Joint / physiology*
  • Tendons / anatomy & histology*
  • Tendons / pathology
  • Tendons / physiology*