Objectives: To report biceps tenodesis with a bioabsorbable bone anchor in working or sporting dogs with biceps tendon pathology.
Animals: Five working or sporting dogs with six cases of biceps tendon pathology.
Study design: Retrospective clinical case series.
Methods: Three dogs had chronic partial biceps tendon ruptures with inflammation and two dogs (three cases) had biceps tendon luxation with fraying of the biceps tendon as diagnosed with ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) and/or arthroscopy. All were treated with biceps tenodesis with a bioabsorbable bone anchor inserted by BoneWelding technology. Mid- to long-term outcomes were assessed with lameness examination, CT examination, and a validated owner questionnaire (LOAD score).
Results: All dogs were free of lameness within 1 to 5 weeks and returned to working or sports. CT assessment confirmed mid- to long-term integrity of the tenodesis.
Conclusion: In this retrospective case series with a small number of dogs, biceps tenodesis using a bioabsorbable bone anchor resulted in rapid restoration of full function in dogs with biceps tendon pathologies. It may be a valuable treatment option for dogs intended for working or sports. The bioabsorbable bone anchor made tenodesis easy and durable with a minimal risk of implant related complications. Larger prospective case series comparing tenodesis and tenotomy are recommended.
