Tears of Biceps Femoris, Semimembranosus, And Semitendinosus are Not Equal—A New Individual Muscle-Tendon Concept in Athletes

Abstract

<p><strong>Objectives: </strong>Hamstring injuries are common and can now be accurately diagnosed. In addition, novel surgical indications have been introduced. However, evidence-based guidelines on the hamstring injuries in management of top-level athletes are missing.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The management methods and outcomes of treatment are classically based on relatively small case series. We discuss a novel concept based on the fact that each tendon of the hamstrings muscle should be managed in an individual fashion. Furthermore, suitable indications for hamstring surgery in athletes are introduced.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The present study introduces modern treatment principles for hamstring injury management. Typical clinical and imagining findings as well as surgical treatment are presented based on a critical review of the available literature and personal experience.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Hamstring injuries should not be considered to be all equal given the complexity of this anatomical region: The three separate tendons are different, and this impacts greatly on the decision-making process and outcomes in athletes.</p>