Functional outcomes of arthroscopic treatment method 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, 28 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.