Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
Appointments by prior arrangement
Dr Puah Ken Lee 潘健理
Orthopaedic Surgeon
Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Injuries
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital, Singapore
✔ Subspecialty Focus in Shoulder & Elbow, Sports Injuries
✔ Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
✔ Evidence-based treatment, Individualised Care
What is a Distal Biceps Tear?
A distal biceps tendon tear occurs when the tendon attaching the biceps muscle to the elbow ruptures. This is typically an acute injury.
How It Happens
- Sudden lifting injury
- Heavy resistance training
- Trauma
Patients often describe a sudden “pop” in the elbow.
Symptoms
- Sudden pain in the elbow
- Bruising
- Weakness in bending the elbow
- Significant loss of forearm rotation strength (supination)
- Prominent upper arm swelling (Popeye’s sign)
Why Early Treatment Matters
Early diagnosis is important. Delayed treatment may lead to:
- Persistent weakness
- Difficulty restoring normal anatomy
- More complex surgery
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical
May be considered in low-demand individuals but typically results in reduced strength.
Surgical Repair
Surgical repair reattaches the tendon to the bone. This is generally recommended for active individuals to restore strength and function.
Distal biceps repair is commonly performed by an elbow specialist.
Recovery
- Initial protection phase
- Gradual physiotherapy
- Return to activity over several months
If you suspect a distal biceps tear, early assessment is important. Contact the clinic for prompt evaluation.
Why Choose Dr Puah Ken Lee
- Specialist in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries
- Fellowship-trained in advanced arthroscopic techniques
- Focus on evidence-based, patient-specific treatment
- Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena
Dr Puah is regularly invited to teach elbow surgery internationally
Book a Consultation
Book a consultation or contact the clinic via WhatsApp to discuss your elbow condition.
Book a consultation at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena
Elbow conditions are common but treatable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and prevent long-term problems.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients with persistent elbow symptoms are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation.