Total Elbow Arthroplasty Specialist Q&A

A total elbow arthroplasty, also known as an elbow replacement surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain and restore mobility to a damaged elbow(s). In this procedure, your surgeon replaces your worn down or degenerated elbow joint with an artificial one.

It’s important to note, however, that elbow arthroplasty doesn’t always mean that your entire elbow joint is being replaced. Sometimes, you may only require a partial replacement, while more severe cases may call for a complete one.

No matter which type of replacement surgery you have, the outcome will be reduced and/or eliminated pain, an improved range of motion, and a better quality of life as you return to the activities you enjoy.

Surgeons will perform an elbow arthroscopy to reduce pain and increase the patient’s range of motion. It is often a treatment option reserved for those that have not seen improvement through non-surgical treatment options such as medication and physiotherapy.

Elbow arthroscopy can effectively treat the following conditions:

• An elbow tumor
• Badly broken bones
• Damage from past elbow surgery
• Elbow instability
• Osteoarthritis
• Pain caused by advanced arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Severely damaged and/or torn tissues
• Stiff and/or frozen elbow

The majority of patients that undergo elbow arthroscopic surgery experience improvements, including pain reduction and increased movement in the affected areas. Replacements are also durable, with artificial joints lasting for an average of 10 years.

On average, it takes about 12 weeks for patients to start being able to utilize their new elbow. However, full recovery can take up to a year, which is why it’s important to schedule regular visits with your surgeon to check on your progress.

You will be expected to strictly follow your aftercare instructions, which will include following any weight restrictions given to you by your provider. Lifting heavy items before an appropriate amount of healing has taken place can break and/or loosen the elbow replacement.

To help make sure your recovery goes smoothly, you will be required to participate in physical therapy. This helps to ensure that you’re continuously building strength in your arm and elbow and that your mobility and flexibility continue to improve over time.

Your specialist may recommend an elbow arthroplasty if you’re experiencing severe and/or chronic pain in your elbow joint that has not improved with other non-surgical methods. You may be a candidate for this procedure if you have:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Post-traumatic arthritis
• A severe fracture(s) and/or a broken bone
• Elbow instability
• An elbow tumor

A total elbow arthroplasty is typically not recommended for those under age 60, as the implant typically wears faster in younger people. This is because younger folks tend to be more active, which increases wear and tear on the implant – meaning that you’ll likely need another replacement surgery sooner. However, this will vary based on your unique medical condition and case, so consulting with a specialist is key at any age.

If you’re ready to talk to a specialist about your elbow pain and get treatment for it, contact us at The Orthopedic Group. We provide safe, professional, and effective care that is tailored to your unique medical needs and concerns. Book an appointment/consultation today and come see what our experienced orthopedic team can do for you! We serve patients from Leesburg VA, Lansdowne VA, Stone Springs VA, Dulles, VA, Ashburn VA, Sterling VA, Aldie VA, South Riding VA, Herndon VA, Winchester VA, Reston VA, Chantilly VA, and nearby areas!