Purpose
Biceps labrum complex (BLC) lesions most commonly occur during sports activities in which the arm is frequently held in an overhead position. Among the available literature there are few histological studies about BLC. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the anatomy of BLC and its attachment to the glenoid and to evaluate the results of our treatment for BLC lesions.
Materials and Methods
Anatomical Study: Sixty shoulders from 30 cadavers were studied. We recorded the appearance of the glenoid labrum and the LHB. Then, we removed the glenoid process from the scapula leaving all of the capsular insertion intact. Sections were each cut along the cornal plane and along the sagittal plane at 200-300 p m thickness on a rotary milling saw, and then ground to a 20 p m thickness. The sections were stained with Cole's hematoxylin and eosin and examined via light and polarized light microscopy.
Clinical Cases:
Thirty shoulders of 29 patients with BLC lesions underwent arthroscopic debridement of the superior labrum.
Results
Anatomical Study: The LHB inserted directly to the superior glenoid and its attachment extended to the middle of the posterior glenoid. The LHB was firmly attached to the superior glenoid from the edge of the glenoid rim. The attachment was gradually loose toward the middle of the posterior glenoid. The LHB was attached to a large surface of the glenoid.
Clinical Cases:
All patients were able to return to competitive sports.
Discussions
Based on our anatomical study, the LHB has a larger attachment area on the glenoid than had been previously reported. Therefore, we believe debridement of the superior labrum for BLC lesions preserves the LHB functions.
