Arthroscopic Management of Refractory Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis is a common overuse enthesopathy of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) that can infrequently result in a recalcitrant disabling and painful condition. Surgical intervention is necessary if conservative treatment fails to provide relief, and open and arthroscopic approaches have been described. Arthroscopy provides a comprehensive approach to intra-articular and extra-articular pathology and has several advantages: (a) ECRB release and debridement is performed without a takedown of the common extensor origin, (b) associated intra-articular pathology (synovitis, plica, chondral wear) can be assessed and treated simultaneously, (c) calcific deposits in the common extensor origin can be removed, and (d) early mobilization is possible as repair and subsequent protection of the common extensor origin is not necessary.