Platelet Rich Plasma Injection vs Percutaneous Tenotomy for Common Extensor Tendinopathy

Comparison of Leukocyte-rich Platelet Rich Plasma Injection to Percutaneous Tenotomy in the Treatment of Chronic Common Extensor Tendinopathy

This is a randomized control trial comparing the use of leukocyte rich platelet rich plasma injections to percutaneous tenotomy for the treatment of chronic common extensor tendinopathy.

This is a randomized control trial comparing the use of leukocyte rich platelet rich plasma injections to percutaneous tenotomy for the treatment of chronic common extensor tendinopathy. Patients with a history of common extensor tendinopathy for greater than 3 months, refractory to conservative treatments, are randomized into one of two groups: injection with leukocyte rich platelet rich plasma or percutaneous tenotomy with the Tenex system. Both groups of patients are followed up in clinic at 1 week, 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year following the procedure to examine levels of pain or complications following both procedures.

Inclusion Criteria:

• At least 3 months of lateral elbow pain
• Subjectively failed trial of physical therapy and counterbracing
• Identifiable pathology on ultrasound (one or more of the following: thickened or disorganized tendon origin, microtearing, edema, neovascularization

Exclusion Criteria:

• Steroid injection within the last 3 months
• Previous surgery for common extensor tendinopathy
• Current treatment with analgesics
• Pregnant, non-English speaking, or illiterate individuals
• History of anemia
• History of bleeding disorder
• Anticoagulant use
• History of cervical radiculopathy
• Hemoglobin less than 11 grams per deciliter
• Hematocrit less than 33%
• Platelet count outside of normal range of 150-400 x 1000 microliter