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J Hand Microsurg 2022; 14(03): 240-244
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1716991
Original Article

Standardized Tendon Fenestration with Injection of Autologous Blood for Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

Chul Ki Goorens
1   Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Regionaal Ziekenhuis Tienen, Tienen, Belgium
2   Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
,
Pascal Wernaers
1   Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Regionaal Ziekenhuis Tienen, Tienen, Belgium
,
Joost Dewaele
1   Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Regionaal Ziekenhuis Tienen, Tienen, Belgium
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Abstract

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) of the elbow is often treated with conservative methods. Several techniques including injections with different substances are widely performed. No standardization exists. This prospective study describes the results of the short-term follow-up of 56 patients with mean age 48 years (range: 30–68 years) treated with the Instant Tennis Elbow Cure Medical device, which fenestrates the injured tendon in a standardized way through a holder of 12 small needles. Depth and position of the needles are determined beforehand by ultrasonography. Unprepared autologous blood was injected through the holder in the tendon. Visual analog pain scale (VAS) decreased significantly in rest by 61% and during activity by 47% after 6 weeks. VAS decreased significantly in rest by 79% and during activity by 66% after 3 months. VAS did not remain significantly different after 6 months. Satisfaction rates were 71% after 6 weeks and 82% after 6 months. This suggests that the therapeutical effect sustains and in some cases increases over time. Patient Related Tennis Elbow Evaluation score ameliorated after 3 months by 71%. Comparative studies are needed to confirm this effect versus other techniques as physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, and injections with other substances.

Keywords

lateral epicondylitis - autologous blood - fenestration - Instant Tennis Elbow Cure


Publication History

Article published online:
17 September 2020

© 2020. Society of Indian Hand Surgery & Microsurgeons. All rights reserved.

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