Operative treatment improves patient function in recalcitrant medial epicondylitis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Medial epicondylitis, often called "golfer's elbow," can be debilitating.
• Recalcitrant cases resist conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, and injections.
• Surgical intervention is considered for persistent symptoms impacting quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term outcomes of open surgical treatment for medial epicondylitis.
• To assess functional recovery, pain reduction, and return to work post-surgery.
• To determine the efficacy of operative management in recalcitrant cases.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 15 patients (17 elbows) with recalcitrant medial epicondylitis.
• Patients underwent open surgical release following failed conservative therapy.
• Clinical outcomes were assessed at a mean follow-up of 66 months.

Main Results:

• Significant improvement in grip strength (mean increase of 10kg).
• Marked reduction in Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores (mean decrease of 25.7).
• Excellent Mayo Elbow Performance scores and minimal residual pain in most patients; 11/12 returned to work within 8 weeks.

Conclusions:

• Open surgery is a safe and effective treatment for recalcitrant medial epicondylitis.
• Operative intervention restores significant function, strength, and quality of life.
• Surgical outcomes support its use for patients with persistent symptoms unresponsive to conservative care.