Tendinitis of the long head of Biceps Tendon associated with lesions of the ,,Biceps reflection pulley"

In some patients with persistent pain around the Long Head of Biceps Tendon (LHB), lesions of the,,biceps reflection pulley", associated with biceps tendinitis, can be found. The aim of this study is to describe the anatomy of the reflection pulley and the arthroscopic appearance of the pulley lesion. Therapeutic options will be discussed. Method: The results of a former histo-anatomic study done by the authors in 13 cadaver shoulders are compared with the intra-operative findings in patients with persistent tendinitis of the LHB together with a lesion of the reflection pulley and signs of LHB instability. Intra-operative findings from patients with either posttraumatic anterior instability or calcific tendinitis served as control. Results: The superior glenohumeral ligament (SGHL) together with the coraco-humeral ligament (CHL) and fibers from the subscapularis and supraspinatus tendons form a stabilizing reflection pulley for the LHB in the rotator cuff interval. Arthroscopy shows an association between a lesion of this pulley and persistent LHB-tendinitis. Pulley lesions can occur as isolated ligamentous pathology or together with a partial detachment of rotator cuff tendons. Conclusion: In patients with therapy-resistent pain around the LHB, lesions of the reflection pulley need to be excluded beside more common causes of biceps problems. Arthroscopy is a reliable tool to assess these lesions. Therapy should address the definite pathology.