title: Surgical treatment of resistant lateral epicondylitis. Follow-up study of 19 patients after excision, release and repair of proximal common extensor tendon origin.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Lateral epicondylitis resistant to conservative treatment is a rare yet disabling condition. When diagnosed, it should be treated surgically. The appropriate surgical treatment relies on a precise diagnosis, usually based on physical examination. Exclusion of other pathologies in the lateral elbow area is essential.
  
  
  METHODS
  We report on an outcome in a group of 19 consecutive patients treated by excision, release, reattachment and repair of the common extensor origin. These patients were followed clinically for at least 2 years.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Eighteen patients reported recovery from pain and a satisfactory subjective gaining of strength in their forearm on average 3 and 4 months after the surgery, respectively.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The presented treatment method is highly effective in the treatment of resistant lateral epicondylitis.
authors.affiliation: Mercy Private Hospital, East Melbourne, Australia. nahumrosenberg@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Nahum
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Rosenberg
authors.forename: Ian
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Henderson
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures; D013710:Tendons / Q000601:surgery*; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome