Elbow replacement surgery

Elbow replacement surgery removes damaged areas of the elbow joint and replaces them with parts made of metal and plastic. These are known as implants. This surgery also is called elbow arthroplasty. Three bones meet in the elbow. The upper arm bone, called the humerus, connects like a loose hinge to the larger of the two forearm bones, called the ulna. The two forearm bones, the radius and the ulna, work together to allow the forearm to rotate.

Your elbow can be damaged by conditions ranging from arthritis to fractures and other injuries. In many cases, the damage from arthritis and fractures can be surgically repaired. However, if the damage is too serious, replacement is usually better. Pain and loss of motion are the most common reasons people choose to have elbow replacement surgery. Conditions that can damage the joint include: Many types of arthritis. Bone fractures. Bone tumors.

Although rare, it's possible that elbow replacement surgery won't lessen the pain or make it go away completely. The surgery may not fully restore the movement or strength of the joint. Some people may need another surgery. Potential complications of elbow replacement surgery include: Implant loosening. Elbow replacement components are durable, but they may loosen or become worn over time. If this happens, another surgery may be needed to replace the loose components. Fracture. The bones in the elbow joint can break during or after surgery. Nerve damage. Nerves in the area where the implant is placed can be injured. Nerve damage can cause numbness, weakness and pain. Infection. Infection can happen at the incision site or in the deeper tissue. Surgery is sometimes needed to treat an infection.

Before surgery is scheduled, you meet with your surgeon. This visit most often includes: A review of your symptoms. A physical exam. X-rays and sometimes computerized tomography (CT) of your elbow. Some questions you may want to ask include: What type of implants do you recommend? How will I manage my pain after surgery? What kind of physical therapy will I need? How will my activities be restricted after surgery? Will I need to have someone help me at home for a while? Other members of the healthcare team check your readiness for surgery. They also ask about your medical history and medicines you take.