Lateral Epicondylitis: Open Versus Arthroscopic

Lateral epicondylitis occurs from repetitive motions of the upper extremity in both athletes and non-athletes, and is more recently thought to be related to overuse microtearing of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). Less than 10% of all cases are recalcitrant and therefore nonresponsive to conservative management. Surgical treatment for tennis elbow consists of many open and arthroscopic techniques. Open repair aims to excise the diseased tissue, but requires longer postoperative recovery times. Arthroscopic treatment yields equally successful results as compared to open techniques. This article provides a brief overview of lateral epicondylitis and the current evidence for open versus arthroscopic treatment.

Keywords: lateral epicondylitis, ECRB, tennis elbow, arthroscopic release