Tratamiento de epicondilitis refractaria con neurotoxina botulínica tipo A libre de complejo proteínico

Abstract

Introduction: Epicondylitis or "tennis elbow" is a condition characterized by pain in the proximal insertion of the extensor Carpi radialis brevis muscle. Treatment of this condition has classically been based on physiotherapy and infiltration with corticosteroids, as well as the use of orthoses. Surgery is recommended when the conservative strategies do not control symptoms after 6-12 months of treatment. Botulin toxin is a therapeutic option when conservative measures are failing Material and methods: We present 3 patients diagnosed of epicondylitis for more than 6 months, and which had been subjected to the usual treatment without success, which will manage with free protein complex botulinum toxin (50 IU) at a single point of application on an outpatient basis. The intensity of the pain in the 3 patients were evaluated using an analog scale visual (EVA) in which 0 represents no pain and 10 means more intense pain experienced with resisted wrist extension maneuver both palpation. Results: We obtained a significant reduction of pain in 3 patients treated to the first month of his administration with total resolution at 3 months. This benefit was maintained at least during 6 months. Conclusions: refractory to conservative treatment can be effectively treated with free protein complex botulinum toxin.