Understanding your elbow

Knee replacement surgery in Hyderabad Secunderabad

The elbow is a hinge joint which is made up of three bones:

  • The humerus (upper arm bone)
  • The ulna (forearm bone on the pinky finger side)
  • The radius (forearm bone on the thumb side)

The surfaces of the bones where they meet to form the elbow joint are covered with cartilage, a smooth substance that protects the bones and enables them to move easily. The tissues covering the elbow joints lubricates it for smooth movement and rotation.

Elbow Replacement treatment

Causes of elbow pain and indication of Elbow Replacement treatment

Several conditions can cause elbow pain and disability, and lead patients and their doctors to consider elbow joint replacement surgery.

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis Chronic inflammation can damage the cartilage and eventually cause cartilage loss, pain, and stiffness. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of a group of disorders termed "inflammatory arthritis."
  • Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease) Osteoarthritis is an age-related, "wear and tear" type of arthritis. The cartilage that cushions the bones of the elbow softens and wears away. The bones then rub against one another. Over time, the elbow joint becomes stiff and painful.
  • Post-traumatic Arthritis Fractures of the bones that make up the elbow, or tears of the surrounding tendons and ligaments may cause damage to the articular cartilage over time. This causes pain and limits elbow function.
  • Severe Fractures A severe fracture of one or more bones that make up the elbow is another common reason people have Elbow Replacement treatments. If the elbow is shattered, it may be very difficult for a doctor to put the pieces of bone back in place. In addition, the blood supply to the bone pieces can be interrupted.

What is Elbow Replacement treatment surgery ?

In total Elbow Replacement treatment surgery, the damaged parts of the upper arm bone and the forearm bone are replaced with artificial components.

The artificial elbow joint is made up of a metal and plastic hinge with two metal stems. The stems fit inside the hollow part of the bone called the canal.

There are different types of Elbow Replacement treatments which come in different sizes as well. Post discussion with us, we can tell better as to which type of Elbow Replacement treatment is better for you.

What Is Elbow Replacement Surgery ?

Why is Elbow Replacement treatment surgery recommended ?

What Is Elbow Replacement Surgery ?

Your elbow can be damaged by problems ranging from rheumatoid arthritis to traumatic fractures.

In some cases, the damage can be surgically repaired. But if the damage is extensive, we might recommend Elbow Replacement treatment surgery. Pain is the most common reason people choose to have Elbow Replacement treatment surgery.

How is the surgery done?

To reach the elbow joint, your surgeon will make an incision (cut), usually at the back of the elbow. After making the incision, your surgeon will gently move muscles aside to get access to the bone. After removing scar tissue and spurs around the joint, your surgeon will prepare the upper arm to fit the metallic piece that will replace that side of the joint. The same preparation is done for the ulna.

The replacement stems are placed into the upper arm and forearm bones and kept in place with a bone cement. The two stems are connected by a hinge pin. After the wound is closed, a padded dressing is then placed to protect the incision while it heals.

Some surgeons will place a temporary tube in the joint to drain the surgical fluid. This tube can be easily removed in your hospital room within the first few days after surgery. The metal replacement parts are made of chrome-cobalt alloy or titanium and there is a liner made of plastic. The bone cement is made of acrylic, a type of plastic.

What Is Elbow Replacement Surgery ?

Post-operative care & recovery

Your medical team will give you several doses of antibiotics to prevent infection. Most patients are able to eat solid food and get out of bed the day after surgery. You will most likely stay at the hospital 2 to 4 days after your surgery.

A careful, well-planned rehabilitation program is critical to the success of an Elbow Replacement treatment. You will be taught some exercises for your hand and wrist to avoid stiffness and help to control swelling. You will do gentle elbow range-of-motion exercises as the incision heals. Your doctor may prescribe therapy or may teach you how to do the exercises yourself. You will most likely not be allowed to put any weight on your arm or push against resistance with your hand until about 6 weeks after your surgery

Any risks or side effects of the surgery

The potential complications of the Elbow Replacement treatment surgery include:

  • Blood cots
  • Infection caused by allergies or infection
  • Implant loosening which can worn out over a period of time
  • Nerve damage which can weaken and cause pain and numbness around the area

Reach out to us if you have

  • Redness, swelling or warmth around the cut
  • Leakage from the cut
  • Fever and chills
  • Severe pain that is not relieved by prescribed painkillers
  • Loss of control over hand movement
  • Loss of hand movement
  • Further surgery planned for the future

Frequently Asked Questions

Elbow Replacement treatment