Percutaneous electrolysis intratissue (EPI?) is a minimally invasive technique that involves the application of a high intensity galvanic current that produces a local inflammatory process in the soft tissue, allowing phagocytosis and the reparation of the affected tissue. This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of EPI? in chronic lateral epicondylalgia.
This was a cost-effectiveness study of a physiotherapy program based on the weekly application of EPI? technique alone associated with daily at home eccentric exercises and stretching. Cost per patient was analyzed in comparison to surgical cases and associated cost (physiotherapy, surgery, sick leave) and was based on pain intensity reduction criteria.
A total of 36 subjects were included in the study, 52.8 % men (47.2 % women) with mean age of 38 years. Of these, 80.5 % of subjects reached complete response after four sessions of EPI?. The cost per process in the initial program and follow-up based on EPI? is 16 times less than the estimated cost in the group surgery.
The combined program of EPI? plus eccentric exercises and stretching is a very acceptable cost-effectiveness treatment.