What is Elbow Arthroscopy?

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat several different elbow joint conditions. When an athlete suffers from bursitis, arthritis, or a fracture of the elbow bone, he can benefit from arthroscopy to diagnose the problem. The procedure involves inserting a small fiber optic camera into the joint through small incisions. Unlike open surgery, this technique requires no large incisions that can lead to scar tissue and no damage is done to any surrounding soft tissues. The surgeon uses the camera to see inside the joint and diagnose any problems. The patient can quickly recover thanks to the minimally invasive surgical technique.

Who is eligible for Elbow Arthroscopy?

Elbow arthroscopy is used to diagnose and treat injuries in the elbow. Patients who may require this procedure include athletes who throw and use their arms for repetitive motions, and people with conditions such as arthritis or infection.

Arthroscopy is a routine procedure for the elbow performed to diagnose and treat a variety of painful problems.

• Overuse
• Injury, including sports injuries
• Age-related wear and tear

Surgical procedure for Elbow Arthroscopy

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose or treat problems in the elbow, such as tears in the joint. The surgeon makes tiny incisions and inserts a small camera and surgical tools through them to examine or repair the damaged area.

Under anaesthesia, your surgeon will view your elbow joint with arthroscopy, making incisions as needed to view the joint.

The patient is prepared for the procedure. The joint is injected with a sterile saline solution to provide visibility and absorption of the foreign material, reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues, blood vessels, nerves, ligaments and bone.

A surgical procedure that is done to diagnose and/or treat a medical problem or injury.

At the end of the procedure, your surgeon stitches or staples the incisions closed and applies a bandage, dressing or splint to them.

Post-operative precautions after Elbow Arthroscopy

After surgery, your doctor may instruct you on a number of exercises to begin at home a few days following surgery. In more advanced surgeries, physical therapy is often prescribed after the first postoperative visit. The time required and the type of therapy will depend on the type of problem you have and the type of surgery you required.

Ice, elevate and rest your injured elbow. Avoid activities that worsen pain or increase swelling - i.e., wear a sling, splint or brace no lifting, or strenuous exercise.

What are the risks & complications?

Elbow arthroscopy poses a slightly higher risk of infection and nerve irritation/injury than shoulder and knee arthroscopy, but is a safe and effective procedure.

• Blood clot include bleeding
• Infection
• Nerve injury or irritation