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Percutaneous extensor tenotomy for chronic tennis elbow using an 18G needle
S Lakhey1, M Mansfield, R L Pradhan
1Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Nepal. slakhey64@yahoo.com
Kathmandu University Medical Journal (KUMJ)
|July 8, 2008
Summary
This study shows that a minimally invasive needle procedure effectively treats tennis elbow when other methods fail. Most patients experienced significant pain relief and high satisfaction with this simple, office-based treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthopaedics
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a prevalent orthopaedic condition with unclear etiology.
- Surgical intervention is considered when conservative treatments, including steroid injections, are ineffective.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of percutaneous release of the common extensor origin for tennis elbow.
- To assess patient satisfaction with this minimally invasive office procedure.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study of 17 patients (21 elbows) who underwent percutaneous release using an 18-gauge needle.
- Data collection involved medical record review and mailed questionnaires for follow-up assessment.
Main Results:
- 66.7% of elbows (14/21) became completely pain-free.
- Pain relief ranged from 1 day to 3 months post-procedure.
- Outcomes were rated as excellent (42.9%), good (33.3%), satisfactory (19%), or poor (4.8%).
Conclusions:
- Percutaneous tenotomy with an 18-gauge needle is a simple, safe, and effective treatment for refractory tennis elbow.
- This office-based procedure offers a reproducible surgical option for patients requiring intervention.
