Tennis Elbow Surgery | Treatment| MedStar Health

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MedStar Health is home to a team of fellowship-trained specialists who provide tennis elbow surgery, at locations throughout the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., region. Our experienced surgeons offer you the comprehensive care you need for an effective procedure and a successful recovery.

What is tennis elbow surgery?

Tennis elbow, otherwise known as lateral epicondylitis or elbow tendonitis, is the term used to describe damage to the elbow tendon after repeated use. This condition often affects those who participate in sports that involve the use of the arm and overhead movements, such as tennis, baseball, and swimming.

Elbow tendonitis can also affect people who are involved in other activities, such as painting or carpentry. Most patients with this condition do well with nonsurgical treatment. When it is severe or when other conservative treatment options fail, a surgical procedure can be performed to repair the damaged elbow tendon.

Treating elbow injuries and chronic conditions

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What does tennis elbow surgery involve?

The surgery is customized based on your individual needs and condition. Many surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, which offer a faster recovery time and less risk of infection than open surgery. Our surgeons will work with you to determine the best plan for your surgery, which may include:

  • Repairing the tendon where it has been torn
  • Removing the excess swollen tissue from the tendon
  • Releasing (cutting) the tendon

What does recovery involve?

After surgery, your surgeon will work with you to develop a plan for recovery, which may involve:

  • Wearing an arm brace or splint
  • Rest
  • Physical therapy
  • Exercise therapy
  • Limiting arm activities

What are the benefits?

Our goal is for you to experience the following benefits after having surgery:

  • Elbow pain relief
  • Ability to return to activities after rehabilitation
  • Permanent tendon repair
  • Improved range of motion

Why is tennis elbow surgery performed?

Surgery is performed to treat the pain and immobility caused by tennis elbow or elbow tendonitis. This condition may be caused by any of the following activities when performed with improper technique or over a prolonged period of time:

  • Tennis
  • Weightlifting
  • Fencing
  • Racquetball
  • Typing
  • Painting
  • Raking the yard
  • Carpentry
  • Knitting

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Tennis Elbow and Tendonitis