Comparing two surgical methods for treating chronic tennis elbow
A Randomized, Double-blind Controlled Trial Comparing Arthroscopic Tennis Elbow Release With Arthroscopic Debridement for the Management of Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis
This study is testing which of two surgical methods works better for adults with chronic tennis elbow who haven't found relief from other treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 68 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ottawa, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT02236689 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of arthroscopic tennis elbow release with arthroscopic debridement in patients suffering from chronic tennis elbow. It is a randomized, double-blind controlled trial designed to evaluate which surgical approach provides better outcomes for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments. The study will involve adult participants who have experienced symptoms for over six months and will assess their recovery and pain levels post-surgery. The goal is to provide clearer recommendations for managing this common condition and improve patient care.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old who have chronic lateral epicondylitis symptoms lasting more than six months and have not benefited from conservative treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with alternative diagnoses explaining their symptoms, previous elbow trauma or surgery, or those with cognitive difficulties may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective surgical options for patients with chronic tennis elbow, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on tennis elbow treatments, this specific comparison of arthroscopic techniques is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Symptoms consistent with lateral epicondylitis persisting for \>6 months, and have failed conservative management * Adult, skeletally mature (\>18yrs) * Provision of informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Alternative diagnosis that better explain their symptoms * Previous elbow trauma or surgery * Case involving workplace insurance claims (e.g. WSIB) * Unwilling, or unlikely in the opinion of the investigator to be followed for the duration of the study (e.g., patient refusal, unfixed address, plans to move...etc.) * Cognitive difficulties that prevent ability to provide informed consent and reliable completion of questionnaires * Bilateral lateral epicondylitis
Where this trial is running
Ottawa, Ontario
- The Ottawa Hospital, General Campus — Ottawa, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: J W Pollock, MD — The Ottawa Hospital
- Study coordinator: J W Pollock, MD
- Phone: 613-737-8899
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.