Failed distal biceps repair with heterotopic ossification: a single-stage reconstruction technique

We report the case of a 53-year-old man who presented with a failed primary reconstruction of a biceps brachii rupture, complicated by the formation of heterotopic ossification (HO) at the elbow in his nondominant arm. Repair of the complications of the primary surgery was undertaken in a single surgical event. The HO was taken down and then the failed biceps repair was reconstructed with a semitendinosus autograft. The patient was placed on a short course of postoperative indomethacin for 4 weeks. Follow-up at 9 months showed no radiological evidence of HO at the elbow, with return of function and strength allowing the patient to return to his preinjury function and occupation.