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Triceps Brachii Injuries

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Summary

Triceps brachii injuries are uncommon, resulting from indirect or direct trauma generally associated with an eccentric contraction. The tendo-osseous junction is the most common location. An extensor lag and palpable gap are diagnostic of complete rupture. Diminished extension strength against resistance implies a partial triceps rupture. A radiograph must be obtained as triceps ruptures are associated with olecranon or radial head fractures. A lateral radiograph may reveal an avulsion or ‘flake’ fracture. Early surgical repair of complete tendon ruptures is recommended. Surgical results are generally excellent.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sports Medicine Section, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Rush-Presbyterian-St Luke’s Medical Center, 1725 W. Harrison, Suite 492, Chicago, Illinois, 60612, USA

    Paul D. Holleb &  Bernard R. Bach Jr (Director)

Authors
  1. Paul D. Holleb
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  2. Bernard R. Bach Jr
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Holleb, P.D., Bach, B.R. Triceps Brachii Injuries. Sports Med 10, 273–276 (1990). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-199010040-00006

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-199010040-00006

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