Elbow surgery

Anatomy that guides treatment

The ulnohumeral joint acts as a hinge, while the radiocapitellar and proximal radioulnar joints help the forearm rotate. The medial and lateral ligaments stabilize the elbow; the biceps and triceps power flexion and extension; and the ulnar, median, and radial nerves pass close to the surgical field.

Conditions treated

• Loose bodies, stiffness, and selected arthritis
• Tennis elbow and distal biceps or triceps injury
• Ulnar collateral ligament injury in throwers
• Fractures, instability, and post-traumatic problems
• Selected cases requiring elbow replacement

Arthroscopic procedures

Elbow arthroscopy can remove loose bodies, release scar tissue, treat selected cartilage or impingement problems, and assist evaluation of the joint. Because major nerves lie close to the portals, careful positioning, anatomy, and technique are especially important.

Open repair and reconstruction

Open surgery may repair the distal biceps or triceps, reconstruct a collateral ligament, stabilize a fracture, release severe stiffness, decompress or transpose a nerve, or replace a damaged joint. UCL repair with internal brace or reconstruction is selected according to tear location, tissue quality, athlete goals, and chronicity.

Imaging and planning

X-rays assess arthritis, alignment, fractures, and loose bodies. CT defines complex bone anatomy and joint-surface injury. MRI or ultrasound may be used for tendons, ligaments, nerves, and cartilage. Electrodiagnostic testing is sometimes useful when nerve compression or injury is suspected.

Recovery

The plan depends on whether bone, ligament, tendon, or cartilage was treated. Early controlled motion is often important, but repaired structures also need protection. Your splint, brace, lifting limits, and therapy schedule are procedure specific.

Risks and realistic goals

The elbow can become stiff and its nearby nerves can be irritated. Other risks include infection, instability, incomplete healing, heterotopic bone, persistent pain, weakness, hardware problems, and repeat surgery. The aim is pain relief, stability, useful motion, and safe return to work or sport; normal motion is not guaranteed after every injury.