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What Does This MRI Report Indicate?

Posted on Wed, 23 Aug 2017

Question: I completely ruptured the proximal longus triceps tendon in my left arm. The MRI showed there was a 3 cm separation from the scapula. I have been to 5 orthopedic surgeons, and all recommended conservative treatment over surgery. One of those seemed willing to do the surgery if I wanted him to. I have several outstanding questions about what will happen if I don't get surgery.
1. Will my longus triceps reconnect to the scapula with scar tissue?
2. If not, will it connect to something else?
3. Will that muscle still function, or will the lateral and medial heads just compensate?
4. Will I lose stability in my shoulder?
5. Will I be unable to get back to doing things I enjoy doing? Heavy weight lifting, hand stands, gymnastics, swimming, volleyball, and outdoor calisthenics?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
The other two heads will compensate.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thanks for posting your query.
A 3 cm separation from the scapula is difficult to heal completely with a scar tissue. it can connect to scapula partially or may get fibrosed in its place. Since there is a large separation complete healing is not likely.
The other two heads of the triceps tendon- lateral and medial heads will compensate for the ruptured tendon and the muscle will have a proper function. You may have some problem in overhead activities like heavy weight lifting or gymnastics.
I hope this answers your query.
In case you have additional questions or doubts, you can forward them to me, and I shall be glad to help you out.
Wishing you good health.
Regards.
Dr. Praveen Tayal.
For future query, you can directly approach me through my profile URL http://bit.ly/Dr-Praveen-Tayal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (2 hours later)

So if I want to be able to do gymnastics and heavy overhead weightlifting, I should consider the surgery to reattach it?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Praveen Tayal (12 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Surgery will help.

Detailed Answer:
Hello.
Thanks for writing again.
If you want a complete healing and full function then surgery can help in a better recovery but still you will need proper physiotherapy after the surgery to build up the muscle strength.
Hope my answer is helpful.
Do accept my answer in case there are no further queries.
Regards.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad