Arthroscopic Versus Open Management of Lateral Epicondylitis Elbow (Randomized Control Trial)

Currently, any indication for elbow surgery can also serve as a potential indication for arthroscopic or arthroscopically assisted management, subject to anatomical compatibility. Often, the pro¬cedure can be more effectively carried out using arthroscopy than through an open approach. The arthroscopic management of lateral epicondylitis demands a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the common extensor origin and the lateral ulnar collateral ligament as the important adjacent structure [1,2]. At the elbow joint, the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL) lies on top of the tendinous portion of the ECRB. When performing an open procedure for lateral epicon¬dylitis, the muscular portion of the ECRL must be exposed to vi¬sualize the tendinous ECRB. The arthroscopic approach offers an advantage in debriding the ECRB without insulting the integrity of the ECRL. The diamond-shaped footprint of ECRB is located just distal to the lateral epicondyle[3]

Inclusion criteria

• tennis elbow not responding to conservative measures (more than 6 months) adult population (more than 18 years)

Exclusion criteria

• Degenerative changes of the elbow (as inflammatory diseases) Previously operated cases Disorganized anatomy of the joint (as in posttraumatic cases) neurovascular compromise of the upper limb