Treatment/Treatment Details/Tennis Elbow Surgery

Tennis Elbow Surgery

Find lasting relief from chronic lateral elbow pain with Tennis Elbow Surgery. When conservative treatments fail, this procedure removes damaged tendon tissue to restore pain-free function.

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Surgical Treatment for Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

Tennis Elbow Surgery treats tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) when conservative treatments have failed. The procedure removes the damaged, degenerative tendon tissue from the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow.

While most tennis elbow cases resolve with rest, therapy, and injections, approximately 5-10% of patients require surgery. Modern techniques include open release, arthroscopic debridement, and percutaneous release—all with excellent outcomes.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our orthopedic specialists determine the best surgical approach based on the extent of tendon damage and your specific needs.

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Who Needs Tennis Elbow Surgery?

Patients with persistent lateral elbow pain lasting more than 6-12 months despite conservative treatment
Individuals who have failed physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification
Those who have not responded to corticosteroid or PRP injections
Patients with significant tendon damage visible on MRI or ultrasound
Individuals whose elbow pain significantly limits work or daily activities
Athletes requiring reliable, pain-free elbow function for their sport

What Conditions does Tennis Elbow Surgery Help Ease?

This procedure may help with:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Arthritis Rheumatoid Arthritis Tennis Elbow Trigger Finger Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Surgeon performing tennis elbow release procedure

The Tennis Elbow Surgery Procedure

Surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under regional or general anesthesia
Open release: A small incision over the lateral epicondyle allows direct visualization and removal of damaged tendon tissue
Arthroscopic release: Small incisions and a camera allow minimally invasive debridement of the diseased tendon
The damaged portion of the ECRB tendon is identified and removed
Healthy tendon tissue is preserved and may be reattached to bone if needed
The incision is closed and the arm is placed in a sling for initial comfort

Benefits of Tennis Elbow Surgery

Definitive treatment for chronic tennis elbow unresponsive to conservative care
Removes damaged, degenerative tendon tissue causing pain
High success rate with 80-90% of patients achieving significant pain relief
Multiple surgical options allow tailored approach to your condition
Restores ability to perform work, sports, and daily activities without elbow pain

Recovery from Tennis Elbow Surgery

Recovery Timeline: 3-6 Months for Full Recovery

Recovery from tennis elbow surgery is gradual:

Weeks 1-2: Rest and wound healing. Ice and elevation to reduce swelling. Gentle finger and wrist motion begins.

Weeks 2-6: Progressive range of motion exercises. Light activities permitted. Sling use decreases.

Weeks 6-12: Gradual strengthening begins. Return to desk work and light duties typically possible.

Months 3-6: Progressive return to sports and heavy activities. Full recovery and strength restoration. Success rates exceed 80-90% for pain relief.

Related Hand, Wrist & Elbow Treatments

Explore other hand, wrist & elbow treatment options:

Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Percutaneous Carpal Tunnel Release Trigger Finger Release Cubital Tunnel Surgery Golfer's Elbow Surgery Elbow Arthroscopy Wrist Arthroscopy Wrist Fracture Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need tennis elbow surgery?

Surgery is considered after 6-12 months of failed conservative treatment including rest, therapy, bracing, and injections. If your outer elbow pain significantly limits work or activities despite these treatments, surgery may be appropriate.

What is the success rate of tennis elbow surgery?

Tennis elbow surgery has an 80-90% success rate for pain relief. Most patients return to their previous activities without significant limitations. Complete relief may take several months after surgery.

Is tennis elbow surgery done arthroscopically?

Tennis elbow surgery can be performed open or arthroscopically. Both techniques have excellent results. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach based on your specific situation and the extent of tendon damage.

How long until I can play tennis again after surgery?

Return to racquet sports typically takes 4-6 months after surgery. Gradual return begins around 3 months with strengthening, progressing to sport-specific exercises before full return. Rushing back increases re-injury risk.

Can tennis elbow come back after surgery?

Recurrence after surgery is uncommon (less than 10%). Using proper technique, equipment, and maintaining forearm strength helps prevent recurrence. Addressing the original cause of overuse is important.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Chronic outer elbow pain limiting your activities? Schedule a consultation with our elbow specialists at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics. We offer same-day and next-day appointments to evaluate your tennis elbow and discuss treatment options.

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer tennis elbow surgery evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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Meet our Doctors

Dr. Christopher McCarthy

Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

With elite training from Princeton, Harvard, and Brown University, Dr. Christopher McCarthy is an orthopedic spine surgeon whose expertise is uniquely enhanced by a second residency in emergency medicine. This powerful combination of skills enables him to treat complex spinal conditions with unmatched precision and compassionate care.

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Dr. Monica McPhail-Pruitt

Pain Management

Dr. Monica McPhail-Pruitt is a highly respected anesthesiologist, dually board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine, who specializes in developing expert perioperative pain strategies. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach ensures individuals are fully supported through the healing process, helping them achieve smoother recoveries and an improved quality of life.

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