Extract
The biceps tendon originates from the labrum and the supraglenoid tubercle
of the scapula. The structure is intraarticular yet extrasynovial. It is
widest at its origin and progressively narrows as it exits the bicipital
groove. The proximal one-third of the biceps tendon has a high degree of
innervation, with substance P and calcitonin gene-related peptides present,
suggesting a rich sympathetic
network1.There is a spectrum of pathological conditions of the proximal part of the
biceps, including tendinitis, SLAP (superior labrum anterior and posterior)
lesions, biceps instability, and partial or complete ruptures. The origin of
the long head of the biceps is variable and is approximately 9 cm
long2. The proximal
portion of the long head receives its blood supply primarily from the anterior
circumflex humeral
artery3. The biceps
tendon passes posterior to the coracohumeral ligament and beneath the
transverse humeral ligament as it courses distally. The capsuloligamentous
structures of the rotator interval are responsible for restraining the biceps
tendon within its proper anatomic location as it passes into the bicipital
groove4,5.
The coracohumeral ligament and the superior glenohumeral ligament are the two
most important structures within the rotator interval for securing the biceps
tendon2. The
superior glenohumeral ligament forms an anterior sling about the biceps. The
more distal transverse humeral ligament is not believed to play a primary role
in securing the biceps
tendon5.