About Medial Epicondylitis
Key Highlights
-
Primarily managed non-surgically in pediatric patients, minimizing invasive procedures.Focuses on preserving the growth plates and long-term joint health in children.Specialized pediatric orthopedic approach tailored to a child's anatomy and activity levels.Multimodal treatment plans combining rest, therapy, and gradual return to play.Aims for complete functional recovery to support athletic and daily activities.
Who is this surgery for?
- Persistent pain on the inner side of the elbow lasting more than 6-12 months despite comprehensive conservative treatment.
- Significant weakness in grip strength or wrist flexion that hinders daily activities or sports.
- Presence of a tendon tear (confirmed by imaging like MRI) that is unlikely to heal with rest alone.
- Symptoms that severely limit a young athlete's participation and do not respond to guided physical therapy and activity modification.
- Rare cases of associated ulnar nerve irritation or compression at the elbow.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough physical examination and imaging (X-ray, possibly MRI) to confirm diagnosis and rule out other causes.
- Undergo an extensive trial of non-surgical care, including physical therapy, rest, and possibly corticosteroid injections.
- Discuss the child's medical history, allergies, and current medications with the surgical team.
- Follow pre-operative fasting instructions as provided by the hospital (typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours before surgery).
- Arrange for post-operative support and transportation, as the child will need assistance.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Nerve injury, particularly to the ulnar nerve located near the surgical site.
- Persistent pain, stiffness, or weakness in the elbow or forearm.
- Incomplete relief of symptoms or recurrence of the condition.
- Scar tissue formation or complex regional pain syndrome (rare).
- Risks associated with the growth plate in very young patients (though surgery is typically avoided in this area).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Immediate post-op: The elbow is placed in a splint or brace for initial protection and comfort.
- Early phase (1-2 weeks): Focus on wound care, pain management, and gentle finger/wrist movements to prevent stiffness.
- Rehabilitation (2-6 weeks): Gradual transition to a removable brace. Begin guided physical therapy to restore range of motion and very light strengthening.
- Strengthening phase (6-12 weeks): Progressive exercises to rebuild strength in the forearm and grip under therapist supervision.
- Return to activity (3-6 months): Gradual, phased reintroduction to sports-specific activities, starting with low-impact drills. Full return to competitive throwing sports may take 6 months or longer.
-
Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient)
-
Expected recovery time: 3-6 months for full return to sports
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering medial epicondylitis in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform medial epicondylitis. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for medial epicondylitis compare across other countries where we have data.
Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...
Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!