Clinical Results of Arthroscopic Treatment for Lateral Epicondylitis of Elbow

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical result of arthroscopic debridement with treatment of associated intra-articular lesions in lateral epicondylitis patients who did not response to conservative treatment.METHOD: Between March 2005 and January 2010, 43 patients who were diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis and did not response to conservative treatment over 6 months were selected. The mean age of the patients was 51 years (39~68 years) and the mean follow up period was 36.7 months (18~72 months). Among the 43 patients, 15 were male and 28 were female. They were evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS) and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).RESULTS: Intra-articular synovitis was found in 11 cases (26%) and intra-articular loose body was observed in 2 cases. The average VAS score was 7(+/-0.7) preoperatively and decreased to 1(+/-1.0) at last follow up. MEPS was 45(+/-10.2) preoperatively and increased to 93(+/-10.0). At last follow up, 41 of the 43 patients showed satisfaction (MEPS <75) and 2 showed dissatisfaction (MEPS > or =75).CONCLUSION: There was a better outcome at 18 months follow up after arthroscopic debridement with treatment of associated intra-articular lesion in lateral epicondylitis patients who had not responsed to conservative treatment.