An Overview of Elbow Epicondylitis Repair
For patients who are diagnosed with elbow epicondylitis, surgery is sometimes the only option to treat tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, especially if symptoms do not respond to other treatments within 6-12 months.
Dr. Millett will perform either an arthroscopic elbow epicondylitis repair or open surgery to remove the diseased tissue from the elbow region and then either reattach healthy tendon to bone or release disease-causing tendon, depending on the specific condition.
The most common approach for repairing tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow is generally open surgery where the small incision allows full access and entry into the area where the damage is located. Whether or not a patient needs open or arthroscopic surgery will be determined based on the extent of the injury, age, health and personal needs.
Surgical risks of this procedure are rare but may include infection, nerve or blood vessel damage, loss of strength or flexibility, and the need for further surgery.
Recovery Following Elbow Epicondylitis Repair
Following an elbow epicondylitis repair, the arm will need to stay immobilized temporarily with a splint. Within 7-10 days following the surgery, the sutures and splint will be removed. Typically, most individuals can return to their normal and athletic activities in about 4-6 months after surgery.
This treatment option is successful in the majority of patients that Dr. Millett treats. There are a few risk factors that may occur after surgery, which includes a possible loss of strength and flexibility. Completing the rehabilitation program as prescribed by Dr. Millett will help maximize the healing and recovery process.
For more information on elbow epicondylitis repair to treat tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, please contact the practice of Dr. Peter Millett.