Elbow Replacement
An elbow replacement can help reduce chronic pain, improve function, and increase your range of motion. If your elbow has been damaged by conditions like advanced arthritis, severe fractures, or traumatic injury, replacing the elbow joint can provide relief.
What is elbow replacement surgery?
The elbow joint connects the upper arm bone (humerus) to the two bones of the forearm (ulna and radius). In elbow replacement surgery, a damaged elbow joint is replaced with an artificial one. The artificial joint is made of high-quality metal with a metal-and-plastic hinge, to allow smooth bending and movement. Different sizes are available to ensure the best fit for each patient.
The surgery is done in the following way:
- You'll receive general anesthesia. This means you'll be asleep and unable to feel pain. Or you'll receive regional anesthesia (spinal and epidural) to numb your arm.
- A cut (incision) is made on the back of your elbow so that the surgeon can view your elbow joint.
- The damaged tissue and parts of the arm bones that make up the elbow joint are removed.
- A drill is used to make a hole in the center of the arm bones.
- The ends of the artificial joint are usually glued in place into each bone. They can be connected with a hinge.
- The tissue around the new joint is repaired.
- The wound is closed with stitches, and a bandage is applied. Your arm may be placed in a splint to keep it stable.
Why is the procedure performed?
Elbow replacement surgery is usually done if the elbow joint is badly damaged and you have pain or cannot use your arm. Some causes of damage are:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Poor outcome from past elbow surgery
- Badly broken bone in the upper or lower arm near the elbow
- Badly damaged or torn tissues in the elbow
- Tumor in or around the elbow
- Stiff elbow
