Your elbow is a complex joint that allows you to do everything from lifting your morning coffee to hugging a loved one. When elbow pain or injury strikes, it can significantly impact your quality of life. At California Pacific Orthopaedics, our team of board-certified elbow specialists in San Francisco is dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to the activities you love.
This page provides an overview of three common types of elbow surgery: elbow arthroscopy, reconstructive surgery, and total elbow replacement. We’ll explore what these procedures are, why they’re done, and what you can expect before, during, and after surgery.
Elbow Arthroscopy: A Minimally Invasive Approach
What is Elbow Arthroscopy?
Think of elbow arthroscopy as a “keyhole” surgery for your elbow. Your surgeon makes a few tiny incisions and inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, to see inside your elbow joint. This allows for a clear view of the bones, cartilage, and ligaments without the need for a large incision. Your surgeon can then use small, specialized instruments to diagnose and treat a variety of elbow conditions.
Why is Elbow Arthroscopy Done?
Elbow arthroscopy is often recommended for:
- Treating Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): A common overuse injury that causes pain on the outside of the elbow.
- Removing Loose Bodies: Fragments of bone or cartilage that can cause pain, clicking, or locking of the elbow.
- Addressing Osteoarthritis: To clean up the joint and remove bone spurs.
- Repairing Ligaments: Such as the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), an injury common in throwing athletes.
- Treating Stiff Elbow (Arthritis): To release scar tissue and improve range of motion.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Elbow Arthroscopy
- Before the Procedure: You will have a thorough evaluation with one of our San Francisco elbow specialists at California Pacific Orthopaedics. This will include a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI. You’ll receive instructions on how to prepare, including information about fasting and medications.
- During the Procedure: Elbow arthroscopy is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. You will receive anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable. The surgery itself typically takes less than an hour.
- After the Procedure: You will wake up in a recovery room with a dressing and possibly a splint on your elbow. You will be given instructions on how to care for your incisions, manage pain, and when to start physical therapy. Most patients experience a quicker recovery and less pain with arthroscopic surgery compared to traditional open surgery.
Elbow Reconstructive Surgery: Restoring Stability and Function
What is Elbow Reconstructive Surgery?
Elbow reconstructive surgery is a broad term for procedures that aim to repair and restore the normal anatomy and function of the elbow. This can involve repairing torn ligaments, tendons, or fractured bones. Unlike arthroscopy, this may require a larger, open incision to give the surgeon better access to the damaged structures.
Why is Elbow Reconstructive Surgery Done?
This type of surgery may be necessary for:
- Severe Fractures: When a bone in the elbow is broken into multiple pieces.
- Ligament Tears: Especially complex tears of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), often requiring “Tommy John surgery.”
- Tendon Ruptures: Such as a tear of the biceps or triceps tendon at the elbow.
- Elbow Instability: When the elbow joint is loose and prone to dislocation.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Elbow Reconstructive Surgery
- Before the Procedure: Your orthopedic surgeon at California Pacific Orthopaedics will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed medical history and imaging studies, to create a personalized surgical plan.
- During the Procedure: This surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The length of the procedure will depend on the complexity of your injury. Your surgeon will make an incision over the elbow to access the damaged area and then use plates, screws, or sutures to repair the bones, ligaments, or tendons.
- After the Procedure: You will likely have a cast or splint on your arm to protect the repair. You may need to stay in the hospital for a day or two for observation. Pain management and physical therapy will be crucial components of your recovery. Recovery from reconstructive surgery is generally longer and more involved than with arthroscopy.
Total Elbow Replacement: A New Joint for a New Lease on Life
What is Total Elbow Replacement (Total Elbow Arthroplasty)?
A total elbow replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged parts of the elbow joint are replaced with artificial components. The artificial joint, or prosthesis, is made of metal and plastic and is designed to mimic the natural movement of the elbow.
Why is a Total Elbow Replacement Done?
This procedure is typically recommended for patients with:
- Severe Arthritis: Including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, that has not responded to other treatments.
- Complex Fractures: In older patients with poor bone quality.
- Failed Previous Elbow Surgery: When a prior surgery has not been successful in relieving pain or restoring function.
What to Expect Before, During, and After a Total Elbow Replacement
- Before the Procedure: You will meet with your surgeon at our San Francisco clinic to discuss the procedure in detail. You may also need a physical examination with your primary care doctor to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery.
- During the Procedure: Total elbow replacement is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes a couple of hours. The surgeon will make an incision on the back of your elbow, remove the damaged bone and cartilage, and then implant the artificial joint.
- After the Procedure: You will stay in the hospital for a few days for pain management and to begin physical therapy. You will have a splint on your arm, and there will be restrictions on what you can do with your arm for several weeks. Full recovery can take several months, and you will have permanent lifting restrictions to protect your new joint.
Choosing the Right Procedure for You
The decision of which, if any, surgery is right for you will be made in consultation with your orthopedic surgeon at California Pacific Orthopaedics. Our elbow specialists will carefully evaluate your condition, lifestyle, and goals to recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Why Choose California Pacific Orthopaedics for Your Elbow Care?
At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care for our patients in the San Francisco Bay Area. Our team of elbow specialists has extensive experience in the latest surgical techniques, from minimally invasive arthroscopy to complex joint replacements. We offer a patient-centered approach, taking the time to educate you about your condition and treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your health.
If you are suffering from elbow pain or have been told you may need elbow surgery, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our expert orthopedic surgeons. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step toward a life with less pain and more movement.
