Effectiveness of magnetic resonance imaging in detecting partial and complete distal biceps tendon rupture.

PURPOSE: A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the elbow is often obtained to confirm the clinical suspicion of a distal biceps tendon rupture. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of MRI in diagnosing partial and complete distal biceps tendon ruptures as determined at the time of surgery.

METHODS: We identified 22 partial and 24 complete distal biceps tendon ruptures operated on by a single surgeon. The preoperative MRIs of these patients were obtained, along with MRIs of the elbow in 10 asymptomatic individuals. Two musculoskeletal radiologists read each MRI without knowledge of the diagnosis or the surgical findings. Their interpretations were compared with the intraoperative findings and the results were statistically analyzed.

RESULTS: The overall sensitivity and specificity of MRI were 92.4% and 100%, respectively, in detecting distal biceps tendon ruptures. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI for complete tears were 100% and 82.8%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of MRI for partial tears were 59.1% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: Magnetic resonance imaging is an effective tool for diagnosing distal biceps tendon ruptures. Although MRI is extremely sensitive in diagnosing complete tears, it is substantially less sensitive in diagnosing partial tears.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Diagnostic II.