Functional outcomes of arthroscopic treatment of lateral epicondylitis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional results of arthroscopic lateral epicondylitis (LE) treatment in patients in whom conservative treatment proved insufficient.

Methods: Between 2011-2014, 29 patients with LE (15 women, 14 men; mean age: 46 years; range: 33-79) who received at least 6 months of conservative treatment methods and did not achieve full recovery and thus underwent arthroscopic surgery were included in this study.

Results: One patient was excluded from the functional assessment. Mean follow-up was 20.5 months (range: 7-42). Mean preoperative and postoperative Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were 81.1 +/- 17.5 and 34.7 +/- 26.8 (p<0.0001), respectively, and Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS) were 48.5 +/- 11.5 and 101.2 +/- 22.9 (p<0.0001), respectively. Twenty-one patients (75%) were satisfied with the functional outcome.

Conclusion: As a result, LE treated with the arthroscopic method, with its low complication rate, successful degenerated tendon debridement, and decortication of the lateral epicondyle, is a useful method for intervention in pathologies such as annular plica, loose body, synovial hypertrophy, and radiocapitellar chondropathy.