Editorial Commentary: Using a 70° Arthroscope to Evaluate the Biceps Tendon and Rule Out Bicipital Tunnel Disease Is Better Than Using a 30° Arthroscope… but Still Inadequate.

Overview

In a well-constructed study using both cadaveric and in vivo models, Sheean et al. found that use of a 70° arthroscope significantly improves visualization of the long head of the biceps tendon and zone 1 of the bicipital tunnel compared with a standard 30° arthroscope during shoulder arthroscopy. Enthusiasm for the added visualization afforded by the 70° arthroscope, however, should be tempered by the fact that zone 2 of the bicipital tunnel and the biceps tendon within remain hidden from view along with any pathology it harbors. Clinicians should not over-rely on diagnostic shoulder arthroscopy when assessing for bicipital tunnel disease.

Arthroscopy : the journal of arthroscopic & related surgery : official publication of the Arthroscopy Association of North America and the International Arthroscopy Association Journal