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Radiographic analysis of lateral epicondylitis
1Hand Surgery Associates, Arlington Heights, Ill 60005, USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|May 4, 2002
Summary
Radiographs are often unnecessary for diagnosing lateral epicondylitis, a common elbow condition. This study found that radiographic findings rarely altered patient management, suggesting initial nonoperative treatment is sufficient.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Radiology
Background:
- Lateral epicondylitis is a frequent elbow disorder.
- The utility of radiographic imaging in its clinical evaluation remains uncertain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of radiographic findings on patient management for lateral epicondylitis.
- To determine if routine radiography is necessary for initial diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- A review of 294 consecutive elbow radiographs from patients diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis.
- Standard anteroposterior, lateral, and radiocapitellar views were analyzed.
- Radiographic findings were correlated with changes in patient management.
Main Results:
- Radiographic findings were present in 16% of patients.
- Faint calcification of the lateral epicondyle was the most common finding (7%).
- In only 2 out of 294 cases did radiographs influence management decisions.
Conclusions:
- Routine radiography is not necessary as an initial diagnostic step for lateral epicondylitis.
- Nonoperative management is the standard initial approach, making early imaging often redundant.
- Clinical evaluation should guide treatment decisions before considering imaging.