Surgery for Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow, where the muscles and tendons of the forearm attach to the lateral epicondyle. Surgery may be considered when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief from symptoms.

Types of Surgery

• Open Tennis Elbow Release: This is a traditional surgical procedure where an incision is made on the outside of the elbow to release the affected tendon. The surgeon will cut the damaged portion of the tendon and remove any inflamed tissue.
• Arthroscopic Tennis Elbow Release: This is a minimally invasive procedure where a small camera (arthroscope) and surgical instruments are inserted through tiny incisions to visualize and release the affected tendon.
• Percutaneous Tennis Elbow Release: This is a percutaneous procedure where a small needle or instrument is inserted through the skin to release the affected tendon.

Surgical Techniques

The surgical technique used may vary depending on the surgeon and the individual case. Some common techniques include:

• Release of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon: This is the most commonly affected tendon in tennis elbow, and releasing it can help to alleviate symptoms.
• Debridement of the lateral epicondyle: This involves removing any damaged or inflamed tissue from the lateral epicondyle to promote healing.
• Tennis elbow repair with grafting: In some cases, a graft may be used to reinforce the affected tendon and promote healing.

Post-Operative Care

After surgery, patients can expect to:

• Wear a splint or cast to immobilize the elbow for several weeks
• Participate in physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion
• Take pain medication as directed by the surgeon
• Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for several months

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications associated with tennis elbow surgery, including:

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Scarring or keloid formation
• Recurrence of symptoms

Recovery Time

The recovery time for tennis elbow surgery can vary depending on the individual and the type of procedure performed. Generally, patients can expect to:

• Return to light activities within 6-8 weeks
• Return to heavy lifting or strenuous activities within 3-6 months
• Experience full recovery and return to normal activities within 6-12 months