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Frequently Asked Questions About Elbow TreatmentA Highly-Effective, Non-Invasive Solution for Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis
What Is The OssaTron®?The OssaTron® is a high-energy shock wave system that provides a non-invasive surgical alternative for patients diagnosed with chronic lateral epicondylitis or tennis elbow. This non-invasive outpatient procedure represents a breakthrough for this condition. Using a unique process known as Orthotripsy®, the OssaTron® emits high-energy shock waves, similar to those used to treat kidney stones, to increase blood flow and stimulate healing of the affected elbow. The OssaTron® is a non-invasive procedure - there are no scalpels, incisions or stitches. Patients can return to normal activity within a few days of the procedure. What Are The Expected Results?90% of patients receiving high-energy shock wave surgery with the OssaTron® received a benefit with only one procedure. Some patients have reported immediate pain relief, although it can take up to four weeks for pain relief to begin. Is It Safe?Yes. Developed in 1991 and widely used in Europe, the OssaTron® is the first shock wave device specifically designed and FDA approved for orthopaedic use. A wealth of medical experience, state-of-the-art engineering and optimal quality have been built into the OssaTron®, and extensive clinical studies and tests have confirmed its safety and efficacy. What is Tennis Elbow?Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a condition in which there is inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) attached to the outside, or lateral side, of the elbow. Patients with tennis elbow experience pain at the lateral aspect of the elbow that can radiate or travel into the forearm and occasionally the hand. The pain occurs with grasping activities and may be accompanied by a sense of weakness. An achy type of discomfort may also be present at rest or at night after activity. Once the tendons get inflamed, the condition can be difficult to get rid of because those tendons are used every time the hand grips or squeezes. What Causes Tennis Elbow? Injury to these tendons can result from repetitive activity in which the
tendons are essentially “overloaded” or “over
stressed”. This situation can result from a variety of activities
including sports and work, or from a change in one’s regular
activity. The “overload” or “over stressing” of
tendons is commonly seen in someone who plays more tennis than usual, or
from excessive use of a screwdriver, hammer, or performance of other
activities requiring constant squeezing or gripping can lead to the
problem.
Is It A Serious Condition?Tennis Elbow is painful, but usually does not lead to serious problems. If the condition goes untreated or becomes severely painful, then loss of function and loss of motion at the elbow can develop. Treatment in these cases may require invasive surgery. Why Consider The OssaTron® Instead of Invasive Surgery?Once your physician determines that your case of tennis elbow is not responding to conservative treatment, the OssaTron® non-invasive surgical solution may be recommended to resolve your pain. Many times, invasive surgery leads to the development of thick scar tissue and a recurrence of pain. Following invasive surgery, patients usually go home with their arm in a sling. The arm must be elevated and kept dry. Stitches are removed 5 to 7 days after surgery and motion is begun. The duration and type of rehabilitation depends on the type of invasive surgery performed. Most people cannot drive for a week. While return to daily activity is possible within 4 to 6 weeks, return to sports or heavy use of the arm can take several months. The OssaTron® has a proven success rate that is equal to or greater than invasive surgery, usually with just one procedure and without the risks, complications, and lengthy recovery time of invasive surgery. The OssaTron® non-invasive surgical procedure requires a minimal amount of time and patients can go home the same day. Patients can return to normal activity within a few days of the procedure. Who Should Consider The OssaTron® Procedure?The OssaTron® non-invasive surgical procedure is recommended for patients who have had lateral epicondylitis for six months or more and who have failed at least three conservative (non-surgical) therapies without success. Conservative (non-surgical) therapies include, but are not limited to:
Who Should Not Have The OssaTron® Procedure?The OssaTron® is not recommended for:
What If You Have A Special Health Condition? The effect, safety, and efficacy of the OssaTron® procedure has not been determined on people
with the following health conditions:
Your doctor will provide you with the information about how these and other health conditions might affect the decision to perform the OssaTron® procedure. What Will Happen On The Day Of The Procedure?Your doctor or healthcare facility will commonly ask you to arrive at the hospital or surgery center a few hours before your scheduled procedure. It is recommended that you should wear loose, comfortable clothing, no make-up, and no jewelry. The staff may take your temperature, pulse and blood pressure, and ask some questions about your general health. They will also request that you sign a consent form, and indicate which arm is to be treated. The treatment can cause some discomfort or pain, so anesthesia is commonly given before the procedure is administered. What Will Happen After The OssaTron® Procedure?You’ll stay at the healthcare facility until the anesthetic wears off enough for you to walk safely. Your doctor will probably ask you to restrict “stressful activity” such as tennis, hammering, or other activities for four weeks. Pain relief begins for patients at different times. The full effect of the OssaTron® procedure may not be realized until the eighth week. If you haven’t achieved any relief of pain by then, you may consider having a second OssaTron® procedure. This is a decision you will make with your physician. What Are The Possible Side Effects/Complications?The OssaTron® procedure has minimal risks. In some cases it can cause skin reddening, bruising, tingling, or swelling at the treatment site. How Can I Get More Information?Your doctor is the best source for information about the OssaTron®. Your doctor has extensive knowledge and specialized training on all aspects of its use, safety, and effectiveness.Customer Service DepartmentToll Free: 866.581.6843 or 678.581.6843 |
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