Early Functional Return to Work Following Distal Biceps Repair

Distal biceps ruptures occur most commonly among young males in their third and fourth decade of life. These injuries are becoming more common, however, as the aging population is remaining active through sport or labour demands. Distal biceps tears or ruptures follow a heavy eccentric load being placed on a shortened or flexed muscle, and often require surgical repair. Functionally, distal biceps injuries cause impairment as this portion of the muscle is largely responsible for supination and flexion at the elbow. Currently there is no consensus regarding post-operative immobilization protocols, and little evidence is available regarding timeframe for early return to functional activities. Existing evidence on functional outcomes post distal biceps tendon repair (DBTR) is of low quality with small sample sizes, and no known RCTs exist comparing early mobilization to immobilization on functional return. Reported timeframes for immobilization range from early controlled motion on day 1 post-operatively to complete immobilization for 6 weeks.

The primary study goal is to determine the effect of immobilization compared to unrestricted mobility post DBTR on early functional return to activities. It has been previously reported that those with DBTR related to a workers compensation injury returned to full duties in 3.95 months, while those with a non-workers compensation related injury returned to full work duties in 1.35 months. In Alberta, near 100 WCB claims were made for DBTR in both 2013 and 2014. Early mobilization of these repairs may allow an earlier return to modified and full work duties, thereby improving the functional quality of life of the individual as well as reducing the overall cost of disability payments.

This study will assess the 1) time to return to pre-injury work level and 2) time to return to modified duties among those who have no movement restriction post-repair and those who are splinted for 6 weeks. Re-rupture rates between groups will also be assessed as will strength, range of motion (ROM) and quality of life. These findings will assist in developing a standardized protocol for immobilization to optimize functional and clinical outcomes while expediting return to work.