Elbow Arthroscopy Surgery

Overview

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that is performed to diagnose and treat various conditions of the elbow. In this procedure, a small arthroscope, or camera, is inserted into the elbow joint through small incisions. By using the arthroscope, the surgeon can visualize the inside of the joint and address issues such as loose body, damaged cartilage, inflammation, or a ligament tear. With smaller incisions and less disruption of the tissue compared to traditional surgery, the patient can recover much faster with less pain and better functioning. This is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, which means it is less invasive than open surgery. Read on to know more.

When is an Elbow Arthroscopy Recommended?

Elbow arthroscopy is recommended for several conditions affecting the elbow joint, including:

• Loose bodies: Removal of fragments of bone or cartilage that have come loose.
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Treating chronic pain and inflammation.
• Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis): Treating pain and inflammation inside the elbow.
• Osteoarthritis: Relieving pain and improving joint function.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Treating inflammation and addressing joint damage.
• Elbow stiffness: Releasing scar tissue and improving range of motion.
• Ligament tears: Repairing or reconstructing damaged ligaments.
• Cartilage injuries: Repairing or removing damaged cartilage.
• Synovitis: Removing inflamed synovial tissue.
• Fractures: Evaluating and treating certain types of elbow fractures.

In general, elbow arthroscopy might be suggested after conservative treatments have failed to relieve symptoms and when a specific diagnosis and direct treatment is needed for a condition affecting the elbow.

What to Expect After an Elbow Arthroscopy?

Here’s what you can expect after an elbow arthroscopy:

• Pain and swelling: You can expect some discomfort and swelling in your elbow, both of which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and ice packs.
• Rehabilitation: Your doctor may recommend physical therapy to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your elbow. It is important to follow the prescribed exercise program to optimize your recovery.
• Activity restriction: Avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for several weeks following your surgery. Gradually increase your activities as guided by your surgeon and physical therapist.
• Return to normal function: Most patients can expect to return to their normal daily activities within a few weeks and full recovery usually takes several months. The length of time for recovery will vary depending on the specific procedures performed during your arthroscopy and your healing rate.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all the scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon in order to monitor the progress in healing, address any concerns, and modify your treatment plan as necessary for the best outcome.

Throughout the recovery process, it's essential to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon and adhere to their recommendations regarding activity level, medication, and rehabilitation.