Biomechanical properties of the biceps-labral complex submitted to mechanical stress.
OBJECTIVE
To determine biomechanical properties of the superior labrum-biceps tendon complex submitted to continuous and sudden mechanical strain.


METHODS
Eighteen shoulder specimens from 15 unclaimed corpses, ages ranging from 20 to 40 years, were submitted to continuous or sudden tensile tests using 3 different traction machines. Shoulders presenting signs of degenerative diseases or preexisting traumatic lesions were excluded.


RESULTS
Rupture of the distal portion of the long hand of the biceps occurred when stretching forces reached 290N in continuous traction and 384N in sudden traction. No labral-complex lesions were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Either a simple continuous or a sudden uniaxial traction of the arm do not play a role in the genesis of superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) lesions in the shoulder joint.
Costa
Adson do Socorro Sá
Ado S
Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Rua Prof. Costa Mendes, 1608/3 andar, 60430-140 Fortaleza, CE, Brazil.
Leite
José Alberto Dias
JA
Melo
Francisco Erivan Abreu
FE
Guimarães
Sérgio Botelho
SB
D000328:Adult; D002102:Cadaver; D006801:Humans; D006811:Humerus / Q000293:injuries / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D008954:Models, Biological; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D012421:Rupture; D012540:Scapula / Q000293:injuries / Q000502:physiology; D000070599:Shoulder Injuries; D012785:Shoulder Joint / Q000502:physiology*; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D013708:Tendon Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013710:Tendons / Q000502:physiology; D013718:Tensile Strength / Q000502:physiology