Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) of Open Debridement Versus Tenex

During the initial screening visit, the physician will obtain your medical history and perform a physical exam. If you pass the screening, you will be randomized into either Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Tenotomy Technique or Open Surgical Debridement. It will be a 50% chance. It will be compared to flipping a coin.

Once you have been placed in your treatment group, your treatment will be scheduled. You will have follow up appointments with your physician to monitor your progress at 3 week(visit 3), 6 weeks (visit 4), 3 months (visit 5) 6 month (visit 6), and 12 month (visit 7) time points. You will also be requested to complete patient questionnaires about your progress at visits 3-7.

Inclusion criteria

• Individuals 18-70 years of age
• Clinically documented chronic lateral epicondylitis with a minimum of 6 months of persistent elbow pain that impedes daily activities.
• Failed alternative treatment for > 3 months.

Exclusion criteria

• Surgical procedure on affected extremity within last six months.
• Dermatological disorder in affected area
• Currently pregnant, confirmed via pregnancy test.
• Blood disorders, autoimmune disorders, disorders requiring immunosuppression, cancer, malignancies, an ongoing infectious disease, or sickle cell or other blood disorders.
• Failed prior surgical procedure on the affected joint.
• No prior effort to treat (stretching, rest, medication) or implementation of external protocol in an effort to improve condition (physical therapy, massage treatment, rehabilitation techniques).