Assessment of the Functional and Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Release of Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis in Management of Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

Background: Lateral epicondylitis commonly known as tennis elbow, is one of the commonest causes of elbow pain and dysfunction. It is due to excessive use of the muscles of the back of the forearm. Histological findings include granulation tissue and micro-rupture, degenerative changes with no traditional inflammation. Nowadays, management of tennis elbow is achieved through arthroscopy for release of extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon.

Aim: To improve the quality of life of chronic lateral epicondylitis patients.

Subjects and Methods: This study was Quasi experimental study where Twenty-five patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis were enrolled in the study and were subjected to history taking, physical examination, and then they underwent arthroscopic release of (ECRB) tendon for management of chronic lateral epicondylitis. Outcomes were assessed by Nirschl tennis elbow score and DASH scoring system.

Results: A total of 25 patients with mean age of 43.5± 6.6 years and 44% were males. Sixty-eight percent of them had no comorbidities. Ninety-six percent of the participants had history of previous steroid injections with the mean of 1.8± 0.8. There was statistically decrease in DASH score among patients after 6 and 12 weeks of operation than preoperative (p <0.001). Also, there was statistically significant improvement in the NIRSCHL score among patients after 6 and 12 weeks compared to preoperative score (P <0.001). Postoperative complications were reported among only 2 patients.

Conclusion: We suggested that arthroscopic release of extensor carpi radialis brevis is effective in management of chronic lateral epicondylitis as it is improving function and decreasing impairment. So, we consider extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon release is a good option for treatment of lateral epicondylitis with minimal complications.