Elbow replacement
Definition
Elbow replacement is surgery to replace the bones of the elbow joint with artificial joint parts (prosthetics).
Alternative Names
Total elbow arthroplasty; Endoprosthetic elbow replacement
Description
The elbow joint is made up of 2 bones: 1 from the upper arm (the humerus) and 1 from the lower arm (the ulna). The artificial elbow joint has 2 stems made of high-quality metal. A metal and plastic hinge joins the stems together and allows the artificial joint to bend. Artificial joints come in different sizes to fit different-size people.
You may receive general anesthesia before surgery. This means you will be unconscious and unable to feel pain. You may receive regional anesthesia instead. You will be awake, but your arm will be numb so that you will not feel pain. If you receive regional anesthesia, you will also be given medicine to help you relax during the operation.
Your surgeon will make an incision (cut) to expose your elbow joint. Usually this incision is made in the back of the upper and lower arm.
- Your surgeon will remove the sections of the humerus and the ulna that make up your elbow joint. Any damaged tissue will also be removed.
- Then your surgeon will drill out part of the center of the humerus and ulna. An end of the artificial joint stems will be inserted into each bone.
- Usually, bone cement is used to hold the stems in place.
- Next, your surgeon will attach the 2 stems together with the hinge.
- Your incision will be closed with sutures (stitches). It will be bandaged, and your arm may be placed in a splint to keep it stable.
Risks
The risks for any anesthesia are:
- Allergic reactions to medicines
- Breathing problems
The risks for any surgery are:
- Bleeding
- Blood clot
- Infection
Additional risks of elbow replacement surgery are:
- Allergic reaction to the artificial joint
- Blood vessel damage during surgery
- Bone break during surgery
- Dislocation of the artificial joint
- Loosening of the artificial joint over time
- Nerve damage during surgery
Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
