Tennis elbow/golfer’s elbow surgery involves an removing a portion of a damaged tendon and repairing the healthy portion of the tendon.
Overview of procedure
An incision is made over the outside of the joint on the respective side affected (medial or lateral). The area of damaged tendon is then identified and removed. The underlying bone is exposed and blood flow to the area is stimulated. The remaining tendon is then repaired to the bone by using sutures anchored into the bone. This can be an arthroscopic procedure or an open procedure depending on the physician’s preference and what is needed. Most cases of epicondylitis, whether medial or lateral, can be treated without surgery.
Pre-treatment considerations
- This procedure is recommended for those with medial epicondylitis or lateral epicondylitis who have been non-responsive to non-surgical conservative treatment for 6-12 months.
- Must determine health and personal needs as well as extent of injury prior to surgery.
Post-treatment considerations and recovery
- The patient is put in a sling and a 90 degree splint for 7-10 days of immobilization.
- Gentle stretching is begun after this immobilization period.
- Physical therapy is gradually progressed to include strength training at about the 2 month mark.
- Patient can usually return to activity around 4-6 months post-surgery.
Pros and benefits
- This procedure has an 80-90% success rate
Cons, risks, and possible side effects
- Loss of strength and flexibility of forearm muscles
- Infection
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Need for further surgery
Is this treatment right for you?
