A finite element analysis of mechanics about the long head of biceps brachii tendon

Object: There are several therapies for rupture of long head of biceps tendon, including biceps tenotomy. However, there is still a disagreement on it, because this procedure may change the biomechanical properties of shoulder and lead to degeneration of rotator cuff. The purpose of this study is to determine the change of stress and strain on shoulder with or without biceps tendon when the joint is loaded by a particular stress. Methods: Based on the CT scan, established two finite element models of the shoulder by Mimics and ABAQUS software, namely with or without biceps tendon. Exerted loading to the modesl and analyzed the distribution of stress and strain. Results: There was a significant difference on the distribution of stress and strain in the two models. Conclusion: 1. The combination of CT scan data and Mimics can be used to set up a accurate three dimension shoulder model. The accuracy of the analysis result is addressed after providing an accurate material property to the model according to CT value and empirical formula.2. The LHBT tenotomy would not accelerate the degeneration of ratator cuff, because the stress of the distal attachment of supraspinatus on greater tuberosity did not increase after the procedure.