Epicondylitis and denervation surgery

Lateral and medial epicondylitis are two of the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the upper extremity. Yet, their exact etiology and optimal treatment remain controversial. Even the efficacy of traditional nonoperative treatments, such as physical therapy and corticosteroid injections, is disputed, with many studies failing to demonstrate long-term benefits with either modality. Newer treatments, such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy and platelet rich plasma, show promise. However, despite the theoretic advantages of these treatments, clinical results remain mixed. When nonoperative treatments fail, traditional surgery in the form of a medial or lateral release remains the mainstay of treatment. However, recovery times from these open release procedures remain prolonged. Recent clinical trials evaluating medial and lateral elbow denervation surgery show that these less invasive techniques may bring permanent resolution to this difficult problem with less pain and shorter recovery times.