A surgical procedure to relieve pain and restore function in the elbow by addressing the tendons involved in tennis elbow.
Through a small incision over the outer elbow, degenerated portions of the extensor tendon are removed and healthy tissue is reattached to the bone where needed. The procedure typically takes thirty to sixty minutes and is usually day surgery.
Surgery is generally considered only after a genuine course of non-surgical treatment, including physiotherapy, has not resolved symptoms, usually over at least six months. Standard preoperative preparation applies, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A brace supports the forearm in the initial period, with pain managed by simple analgesia. Physiotherapy begins once the surgeon confirms healing is progressing, and improvement continues gradually over several months.
Rehabilitation starts with gentle range-of-motion exercises, progressing to gradual strengthening as the repaired tendon heals, with the pace guided by the surgeon and physiotherapist based on individual healing.
Risks include infection, stiffness, and persistent or recurrent pain. There is also a small risk of nerve irritation given the nerves that run near the surgical site, and the general risks of anaesthesia apply.
The aim is to relieve persistent outer elbow pain and restore grip strength for symptoms that have not responded to non-surgical treatment. Most patients experience good improvement, though tendon healing is gradual and full benefit develops over several months.
Tennis elbow release removes degenerated tendon tissue at the outer elbow, offered when a genuine course of non-surgical treatment has not resolved symptoms. Most patients experience good improvement in pain and grip strength over a gradual recovery.
Dr Clifton treats conditions of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand. Read more about the area that applies to you.