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Common Extensor Tendon Origin Repair

What is a Common Extensor Tendon Origin Repair?

The common extensor tendon is a tough band of fibrous connective tissue that attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus (long bone in the upper arm) at the elbow. Rupture or tear of the common extensor tendon is the most common acute tendon injury of the elbow. The most frequent pathology of the common extensor tendon is epicondylitis and is characterized by loss of normal tendon structure.

Tennis elbow and golfers elbow are similar, except that golfers elbow occurs on the inside of the elbow (medial epicondylitis) and tennis elbow occurs on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondylitis). Tennis elbow is an overuse injury of the common extensor tendon origin. The common extensor tendon originating from the lateral epicondyle of the elbow is directly involved in Tennis elbow.

Causes of Common Extensor Tendon Origin Rupture

Any recreational or occupational activity that involves extensive or repetitive use of the common extensor tendon can result in tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis. It is commonly seen in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50.  Common causes may include:

  • Activity that requires repetitive motion of the forearm such as painting, typing, weaving, gardening, lifting heavy objects, and sports.
  • Overuse of the forearm muscles.
  • Direct trauma as with a fall, work injury, or motor vehicle accident.
  • Poor grip when playing racket sports.
  • Weakened muscles of the shoulder and wrist.

Symptoms of Common Extensor Tendon Origin Rupture

Signs and symptoms of common extensor origin rupture may include:

  • Elbow pain that gradually worsens
  • Pain at the outside of the elbow that radiates to the forearm and wrist when grasping objects
  • Weak grip
  • Painful grip
  • Exacerbated pain in the elbow when the wrist is bent back

Diagnosis of Common Extensor Tendon Origin Rupture

Your doctor will evaluate the rupture by reviewing your medical and occupational history, performing a thorough physical examination, and ordering diagnostic studies such as an X-rays or MRI.

Procedure for Common Extensor Tendon Origin Repair

If conservative treatment fails to resolve the condition and symptoms persist for 6-12 months, your surgeon may recommend a surgical procedure to remove any diseased tissue and re-attach the tendon to bone.

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