Distal Triceps Tear Repair Surgeon

Have you sustained a distal triceps tear from falling on an outstretched arm, or in a sport which causes repetitive load bearing during elbow extension? If so, it is important to consult with Dr. James Mazzara and his orthopedic team soon after initial injury. Distal triceps tear specialist, Dr. James Mazzara provides diagnosis and treatment options for patients in Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities who have suffered a distal triceps tear. Contact Dr. Mazzara’s team today!

What is a distal triceps repair?

The triceps muscle is located in the back of the upper arm and is attached at the elbow to the olecranon (the bony tip of the elbow.) This muscle serves to straighten the elbow. Distal triceps tendon rupture occurs when the triceps tendon disconnects or detaches from the elbow. These injuries require immediate medical attention and surgical repair to restore the activity of the triceps muscles. Serving Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities, Dr. James Mazzara, elbow surgeon, is skilled at performing distal triceps repair and can help patients with new or older triceps tendon ruptures.

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Distal Triceps Repair

Are you a candidate for a distal triceps repair?

There are two ways to initiate a consultation with Dr. Mazzara:

You can provide current X-rays and/or MRIs for a clinical case review with Dr. Mazzara.

You can schedule an office consultation with Dr. Mazzara.

How is distal triceps repair done?

Dr. Mazzara can repair the torn tendon with an open surgery. The treatment involves an incision behind the elbow where Dr. Mazzara will drill holes into the end of the ulna (one of the bones of the forearm.) The ends of the torn tendons are then inserted through the holes and stitched in place. Screws, pins or a soft anchor may be used to secure the torn tendon to the bone.  For older tendon injuries or in cases where the distal triceps tendon has been repeatedly damaged, a tendon may be used from another part of the body, or a tendon graft from a donor may be required to lengthen or reinforce the repair.

How long is the recovery after distal triceps tendon repair?

The tendon will need to heal and reattach completely to the bone in order for there to be painless extension and flexion of the triceps muscle. After surgery, patients are placed in a cast or brace to immobilize the elbow. At the first post-operative visit with Dr. Mazzara, healing of the tendon will be evaluated. Sutures are removed, a specially fitted hinged elbow brace is applied, and if necessary and simple exercises will be advised to avoid stiffness.  After 6-8 weeks, physical therapy will begin to strengthen the muscles and to regain complete range of motion. Full recovery can be expected in about 12 weeks.

For more information on triceps tendon repair with either arthroscopic or open surgery, please contact the offices of Dr. James Mazzara, orthopedic elbow surgeon, treating patients in Manchester, South Windsor, Enfield, Glastonbury and surrounding Hartford communities.

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