Medicine (Baltimore). 2026 Jan 30;105(5):e47390. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000047390.
ABSTRACT
RATIONALE: Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is an overuse syndrome of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendons of the forearm, leading to pain around the lateral epicondyle of the humerus exacerbated by several activities and a decrease in work productivity. This case study reports the efficacy and side effects of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using Smartgel MIRIP, a novel quick-soluble gelatin sponge particles agent, through a LE patient with diabetes mellitus (DM).
PATIENT CONCERNS: The 61-year-old male presented with right elbow pain persisting for a month, which was exacerbated during wrist extension and made him unable to actively lift the wrist.
DIAGNOSES AND INTERVENTIONS: Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed LE with partial tearing of the common extensor tendon and associated cystic lesions. Given the patient's DM, adverse effects from steroid injections, and poor response to conservative therapies, TAE with Smartgel MIRIP was performed as an alternative intervention.
OUTCOMES: The visual analogue scale, patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation, and quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand questionnaires were administered to evaluate patient's pain and function. Transient post-procedural pain aggravation, dysfunction, diffuse ecchymosis, and swelling were observed but improved within days. Pain relief and functional improvement compared to baseline were observed from the 1 week after TAE and following periods as measured by visual analogue scale, patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation, and quick disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand.
LESSONS: This study focused on the embolic agent of TAE suggesting Smartgel MIRIP as an alternative to imipenem-cilastatin sodium without antimicrobial restriction. In addition, our report proposed DM as an important clinical history factor that can impact outcomes in TAE.
PMID:41630245 | PMC:PMC12863902 | DOI:10.1097/MD.0000000000047390