Arthroscopy of the elbow joint

Autor: RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI
Consultation JAKUB STEFANIAK
Date added 04.12.2024
Date of last revision 04.12.2024

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Arthroscopy is a type of surgery that involves inserting an arthroscope (a special multifunctional camera designed to work inside the joint) into the joint. Due to its small size, the skin incisions are a few millimeters long. This type of surgery allows the inside of the joint to be viewed in detail on a monitor allowing for a more accurate diagnosis as well as necessary repair procedures.

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Indications for arthroscopy

Arthroscopy of the elbow joint is one of the most modern methods of surgical treatment of various conditions of the elbow joint, such as tennis elbow, removal of free bodies, arthrolysis of the joint, i.e. its release with increased range of motion in case of degenerative changes. Planning surgical treatment requires adequate preparation, clinical examination and imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI or CT).

Course of the operation

Elbow arthroscopy is usually performed under plexus anesthesia (only the operated limb is anesthetized). The type of anesthesia is discussed by the anesthesiologist before the operation. For the duration of the operation, the blood supply to the limb is shut off by placing a special tourniquet similar to a blood pressure cuff on the arm. This procedure is safe and, thanks to anesthesia, completely comfortable for the patient. The joint is filled with sterile fluid, and the camera and the necessary instruments are inserted into the joint through several millimeter incisions. All actions are observed on a monitor, and the course of the operation is recorded. After the procedure, single sutures are applied to the wounds, followed by a dressing.

After the procedure, the patient moves independently, and the arm is placed in a sling. The plexus anesthesia usually subsides within 24 hours, providing adequate pain relief in the first hours after surgery. The next day, or in certain cases on the day of surgery, the patient can be discharged home.

Postoperative recommendations

  • On the day of discharge, the patient should be provided with transportation home. He should not drive a car or take public transportation on his own.
  • Presc.riptions should be filled and medications should be taken as prescribed by the doctor.
  • Dressings should be changed as prescribed by the doctor, avoiding soaking wounds.
  • The sutures used are usually absorbable and do not require subsequent removal. Suture absorption time is about 3-4 weeks.
  • A follow-up visit is made at the appointed time, but if there is an increase in pain and swelling, wound leakage or fever, you should
    contact the doctor immediately.
  • Exercises should be performed according to the given recommendations of the physiotherapist.
  • The rehabilitation period in different cases can vary in length from two to several weeks.

Removal of free bodies

One of the indications for elbow arthroscopy is the removal of free bodies. These are cartilage and bone bodies that appear inside the joint from damaged cartilage or bone most often as a result of progressive degeneration. Among the symptoms of the condition are restriction of movement, sudden locking in the joint, a jumping and snapping sensation. Free bodies may accompany osteoarthritis of the joint, cartilaginous necrosis, instability of the elbow joint or a history of trauma. Due to the possibility of cartilage destruction by free bodies, conservative treatment is not recommended. The basis is arthroscopy of the elbow joint that allows minimally invasive removal of free bodies.

Arthrolysis of the elbow joint

In the case of progressive degenerative changes that increasingly limit the function of the elbow, it becomes necessary to perform an elbow joint arthrolysis procedure. It involves the removal of obstacles that limit movement in the joint, such as free bodies, ossifications, or capsular contractures. Arthrolysis is performed using an arthroscope and special instruments. The use of this minimally invasive technique significantly speeds up healing time. Immediately after the procedure, the patient begins rehabilitation, so that the process of returning to full fitness takes place in the shortest possible time.

Learn about other possible elbow injuries.

Bibliography:

Autor
RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI
RAFAŁ CZEPUŁKOWSKI

Specjalista do spraw content marketingu, dziennikarz sportowy i medyczny. Redaktor naczelny magazynu „Poradnik Zdrowie i Sport”, członek Dziennikarskiego Klubu Promocji Zdrowia, współtwórca wielu artykułów medycznych z zakresu ortopedii i urazowości w sporcie.

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Konsultacja merytoryczna
JAKUB STEFANIAK
JAKUB STEFANIAK

Lekarz w klinice Rehasport, specjalizuje się w ortopedii i traumatologii narządu ruchu z ukierunkowaniem na leczenie schorzeń barku, łokcia oraz nadgarstka. Lekarz Kadry Polskiego Związku Tenisowego oraz certyfikowany szkoleniowiec Polskiej Agencji Antydopingowej.

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