Fragmentation of the supraglenoid tuberosity and bicipital tendinopathy in two dogs.

This report describes an atypical biceps brachii tendon injury with acute, traumatic fragmentation of the supraglenoid tuberosity and partial rupture of the origin of the biceps brachii tendon in two dogs. Both dogs had foreleg lameness after an acute traumatic event. Radiographic examination revealed an irregular appearance to the cranial aspect of the supraglenoid tuberosity and the presence of osseous fragments in the intertubercular groove. Arthroscopic evaluation showed a partial tear of the biceps brachii tendon with fragmentation of the cranial aspect of the supraglenoid tuberosity. Biceps brachii tenotomy was performed and the osteochondral fragments were left to retract with the severed tendon. Both dogs returned to full activity six weeks after surgery and showed no lameness at one year followup. Radiographs showed no change to the position of the osteochondral fragment and no evidence of osteoarthritis. Resolution of lameness after tenotomy suggests the predominant feature of this condition was biceps brachii tendinopathy and fragment removal or fixation is unnecessary to achieve a functional outcome. Fragmentation of the supraglenoid tuberosity and biceps brachii tendinopathy should be considered a differential diagnosis for young dogs with acute foreleg lameness attributable to shoulder pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]