Elbow

Specialist in upper limb surgery of the elbow

Fellowship at Sydney Shoulder Research Institute & Orthoclinic in elbow surgery

Understanding Radial Head Replacement

Diagnosis:
Radial head replacement is usually recommended for patients with severe radial head fractures or arthritis that cannot be managed with conservative treatments. This condition affects the radial head, a part of the elbow joint that helps with arm rotation and stability.

Anatomy:
The radial head is the top part of the radius bone (one of the two forearm bones) that sits at the elbow joint. It helps in the rotation of the forearm and supports the elbow's overall function.

Surgical Procedure:

Preparation: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made over the outer side of the elbow.
Removal: The damaged or fractured radial head is removed.
Replacement: A prosthetic radial head, usually made of metal or ceramic, is implanted to replace the removed part.
Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a splint or cast is applied to immobilize the elbow.

Possible Complications:

Infection at the surgical site
Nerve or blood vessel damage
Implant dislocation or loosening
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Persistent pain or discomfort

Post-Surgery Expectations:

Recovery: Initial recovery involves rest and immobilization with a splint or cast. Pain management is crucial.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is essential to restore strength and range of motion. Exercises will gradually increase in intensity.
Follow-Up: Regular visits to the surgeon to monitor healing and adjust rehabilitation as needed.

Understanding these aspects will help you prepare for the procedure and manage your recovery effectively.

Understanding Elbow Replacement

Elbow arthroplasty, also known as elbow replacement surgery, is a procedure used to replace the damaged elbow joint with an artificial one. This surgery can help relieve pain and restore function in patients with severe elbow arthritis or other joint issues.

What is Elbow Arthroplasty?
Elbow arthroplasty involves removing the damaged parts of the elbow joint and replacing them with prosthetic components. This can be necessary when other treatments have failed to relieve pain or improve function.

Why is it Performed?

To relieve severe pain: Persistent pain not managed by medication or physical therapy.
To improve function: Difficulty with daily activities due to stiffness or pain.

Procedure Details

Preparation: The patient is given anesthesia.
Surgery: The surgeon removes damaged bone and cartilage and implants the artificial joint.
Post-Op Care: Patients typically use a sling and start gentle range-of-motion exercises soon after surgery. Physical therapy is often required to aid recovery.

Recovery

Initial Phase: Includes rest and immobilization.
Rehabilitation: Involves physical therapy to restore movement and strength.

Potential Risks

Infection
Blood clots
Prosthesis complications
Reduced range of motion

Elbow arthroplasty can significantly enhance quality of life by reducing pain and improving the ability to perform everyday tasks.

Understanding Elbow Ligament Reconstruction

Diagnosis:
Elbow ligament reconstruction is typically recommended for individuals with significant ligament damage, often resulting from repetitive stress or acute injuries. The most common ligament involved is the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), which provides stability to the elbow joint.

Anatomy:
The elbow joint is a hinge joint where the humerus (upper arm bone) meets the radius and ulna (forearm bones). The UCL is crucial for stabilizing the elbow during activities involving arm rotation and throwing.

Surgical Procedure:

Preparation: The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made on the inner side of the elbow.
Reconstruction: The damaged UCL is replaced with a tendon graft from another part of the patient’s body or a donor.
Reattachment: The new tendon is secured to the bones using screws or sutures.
Closure: The incision is closed with stitches, and a splint or brace is applied to immobilize the elbow.

Possible Complications:

Infection at the incision site
Nerve damage, which may cause numbness or weakness
Graft failure or rejection
Limited range of motion or stiffness

Post-Surgery Expectations:

Recovery: Initial recovery involves rest and immobilization. Physical therapy is crucial for regaining strength and flexibility.
Rehabilitation: Gradual return to normal activities, starting with gentle range-of-motion exercises and progressing to more intensive strength training.
Follow-Up: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to monitor healing and adjust rehabilitation as needed.

Understanding these aspects will help you prepare for the procedure and manage your recovery effectively.

Understanding Elbow Arthroscopy

Diagnosis:
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat various elbow issues, such as joint pain, stiffness, or injuries. It is often recommended when conservative treatments, like physical therapy or medication, have failed.

Anatomy:
The elbow joint consists of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (forearm bones). It allows for bending, straightening, and rotation of the arm. The joint is surrounded by ligaments, tendons, and cartilage that support and stabilize its movement.

Surgical Procedure:

Preparation: Performed under general or regional anesthesia, the arm is positioned to provide access to the elbow.
Incision: Small incisions are made around the elbow to insert an arthroscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera) and specialized surgical instruments.
Inspection and Treatment: The arthroscope provides a view of the joint interior on a monitor. The surgeon can then remove debris, repair damaged tissue, or release tight structures.
Closure: The incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips, and a bandage or splint is applied

Possible Complications:

Infection at the incision site
Bleeding or blood clots
Nerve or blood vessel damage
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Persistent pain

Post-Surgery Expectations:

Recovery: Expect some swelling and discomfort initially. Ice and elevation can help manage these symptoms.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is often required to regain strength and mobility. Follow your therapist’s guidance for exercises and stretches.
Follow-Up: Regular follow-ups with your surgeon will be necessary to monitor your recovery and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Understanding these aspects will help you prepare for elbow arthroscopy and manage your recovery effectively.

Understanding Elbow Open Release

Diagnosis:
An elbow open release surgery is typically performed for conditions like elbow contracture or severe elbow stiffness that do not improve with conservative treatments. This procedure aims to relieve pressure and restore movement.

Anatomy:
The elbow joint comprises the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, and ulna (forearm bones). The joint allows for bending and rotation of the forearm. The ligaments and soft tissues around the elbow enable its movement and stability.

Surgical Procedure:

Preparation: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The patient’s arm is positioned to allow easy access to the elbow.
Incision: A surgical incision is made along the elbow to access the joint and surrounding tissues.
Release: The surgeon releases the tight or scarred tissues, such as ligaments or tendons, to improve joint mobility.
Closure: The incision is closed with stitches or staples, and a bandage or splint is applied to protect the area.

Possible Complications:

Infection at the surgical site
Nerve or blood vessel damage
Persistent pain or swelling
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Scar tissue formation

Post-Surgery Expectations:

Recovery: The elbow may be immobilized with a splint or bandage initially. Pain management and rest are crucial during this period.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is essential for restoring range of motion and strength. Exercises will be prescribed to help with recovery.
Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor healing and adjust therapy as needed.

Understanding these aspects will help you prepare for the surgery and manage your recovery effectively.

Understanding Distal Biceps Repair

Diagnosis:
A distal biceps repair is often needed for a torn or ruptured distal biceps tendon, typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI. Symptoms may include sudden pain in the elbow, a bulge in the upper arm, and difficulty in bending the elbow or rotating the forearm.

Anatomy:
The biceps brachii muscle, located in the upper arm, has two tendons:

Long Head Tendon: Attaches at the shoulder.
Short Head Tendon: Attaches at the elbow (distal biceps tendon).

The distal biceps tendon connects the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm and is crucial for elbow flexion and forearm rotation.

Surgical Procedure:

Preparation: Performed under general anesthesia, with the arm placed in a suitable position.
Incision: A small incision is made in the elbow area.
Repair: The torn tendon is reattached to the bone using anchors or sutures. Sometimes, a graft might be used if the tendon is severely damaged.
Closure: The incision is closed with sutures, and a brace or splint is applied.

Possible Complications:

Infection at the incision site
Nerve damage
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Re-tearing of the tendon
Blood clots or swelling

Post-Surgery Expectations:

Recovery: The elbow will be swollen and sore initially. Rest and elevation are crucial.
Rehabilitation: Physical therapy is essential for restoring strength and mobility. Follow the prescribed exercises and avoid heavy lifting.
Follow-Up: Regular appointments with your surgeon to monitor healing and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.

This procedure aims to restore normal function and relieve pain, allowing you to return to daily activities and sports