Elbow arthroscopy: procedures, safety, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is elbow arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy (microsurgery) involves examining the inside of your elbow using a telescope that is inserted through the small incisions made in your skin. Your surgeon will be able to treat any problems detected during the examination using special surgical instruments.

What are the benefits of arthroscopy?

The purpose of the procedure is to ascertain what is the problem that is being complained of, and for some people the problem can be directly handled during the procedure.

When do I need elbow arthroscopy?

Your doctor will recommend arthroscopy based on your complaints about pain that doesn't respond to nonsurgical therapy. Nonsurgical procedures include rest at home, physical therapy, and medications or injections that can relieve inflammation. Inflammation is the body's natural reaction to injury or disease. In an injured or diseased elbow joint, inflammation causes swelling, pain, and stiffness.

Precautions & warnings

The condition of the elbow in each patient is different. This results in different recovery times for each person.

If you've had minor repairs, you may not need splint assistance (orthopedic tools) and your elbow will return range of motion and function after a brief rehabilitation. You can return to your normal routine a few days after the procedure.

More complex procedures will require longer recovery times. Although arthroscopy uses small incisions, extension injuries within the joints can be treated with this procedure.

Are there any alternatives to elbow arthroscopy?

Joint problems can be diagnosed using other medical tests, such as CT and CT scans. However, you may need arthroscopy to treat the problem.

Process

What should I do before elbow arthroscopy?

This procedure is done after you have been given general anesthesia. You will be given complete instructions on what to do ahead of the procedure, including whether you can eat certain foods a few hours before the surgery. Generally, you will be asked to fast to eat 6 hours before the arthroscopy. You will be allowed to drink liquids, such as coffee, up to several hours before the procedure.

How is the elbow arthroscopy process?

The surgical procedure takes about 30 minutes.

The surgeon will make 2 - 4 small incisions along your joint. Then, your doctor inserts a small telescope through one of the incisions so he can examine the joint. The surgeon will also insert surgical instruments through another incision if he feels that any problems in your joint need to be treated immediately.

What should I do after elbow arthroscopy?

You can return home immediately after surgery.

Your physiotherapist may recommend moderate exercise and some follow-up instructions to help speed up the recovery process. The recovery process can take up to 3 months until you can return to your normal activities.

Regular exercise will help you regain your strength to carry out your daily activities. Before starting, ask your team of doctors for advice on a sport that is right for you.

Most people will generally experience significant improvement, but it will take time for the pain to subside and the movement of the joints to return to normal. Signs of the disorder often return over time.

Complications

What complications can occur?

General Complications

• pain
• bleeding
• infection in the surgical area (wound)
• mild scarring

Specific Complications

• bleeding leaks into the joints
• infection of the elbow joint
• extreme pain, arm stiffness, and loss of control over the arm and hand (complex regional pain syndrome)
• nerve damage
• radial nerve damage

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.