Outcome analysis of percutaneous tenotomy in chronic lateral epicondylitis elbow

Abstract

<p class="abstract"><strong>Background:</strong> Lateral epicondylitis elbow is a self-limiting condition with an unclear pathology. Conservative therapy is treatment of choice in lateral epicondylitis elbow but chronic lateral epicondylitis elbow (>6 month) is a condition difficult to treat. Percutaneous extensor tendon release can be a viable treatment option in such conditions.</p><p class="abstract"><strong>Methods:</strong> This prospective study was conducted in 2016 to 2017 at the Department of Orthopaedics Surgery in a tertiary care institute. 30 patients were treated by percutaneous tenotomy. The outcome was assessed at follow ups using numerical rating scale (NRS), disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand questionnaire (DASH) and Oxford scores.<strong></strong></p><p class="abstract"><strong>Results:</strong> 30 elbows were included in this study. They were managed by percutaneous method (PT; n=30). The mean age of patients was 41.74 years (range 26-67 years). Females were affected more than males in both groups (3:1). Dominant limb was involved in 86% of patients.73% of females were house wives exposed to household chores and manual activities while 40% of males were manual workers. Mean hospital stay was 35 minutes (range 20-43 minutes). Patients were followed up at 3 month and 6 month post intervention. NRS, DASH, Oxford score assessment showed that all the scores were significantly decreased (p<0.05) at 3 month and 6 month in patients undergoing percutaneous tenotomy. </p><p class="abstract"><strong>Conclusions:</strong> Lateral epicondylitis >6 month duration is difficult to treat. Percutaneous tenotomy is effective modality of treatment in such conditions.</p>