When is elbow joint replacement surgery required?

Posted on 06/14/2022 by RBH

Injuries occur every now and then in every person's life; some are treated with medications, ointments, and therapy while others require surgery. Elbow replacement surgery is not as common as knee replacement surgery or hip replacement surgery, people who injure their elbow in an accident, trauma, or due to any kind of chronic disease such as Arthritis, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc in such cases surgery may be required. In the case of an elbow replacement surgery, the damaged area of the elbow joint is replaced with an implant or prosthesis which is made up of either metal, fiber, or plastic; this process is also known as arthroplasty. When we talk about elbow joints there are three bones that meet and form an elbow; the upper bone known as the humerus connects like a hinge to the larger forearms known as Ulna. In order for the elbow joint to work and provide rotation and movement the two forearm bones known as the radius and ulna have to work together in proper synchronization as a movement of the elbow joint is essential in order to perform any kind of chores or task.

Earlier, elbow replacement surgery had higher risk and its replacement had accuracy issues and complications as compared to other surgery but with the help of advancement of medical science and surgical procedures these implants are much more improved and have a higher success rate. When we talk about elbow replacement it does not necessarily mean that the entire elbow is replaced; in many cases, parts of them are replaced such as the radial head. By replacing the elbow joint, quality of life increases, and the patient gets relief from its pain and becomes more independent in doing their activities and chores.

Why is elbow replacement required?

The elbow joint is made up of 3 bones known as the humerus, ulna, and radius, these bones are joined with cartilage, ligaments, and tendons in order to move and perform daily tasks. The main function of cartilage is to provide a smooth cushioned surface so that the bones can glide against one another without any wear and tear. Whenever the cartilage or bones go through wear and tear and the ligaments are injured for the long term it causes pain, swelling, and stiffness that causes obstruction in movement. And in order to get relief from this pain and stiffness and increase the range of motion, elbow replacement surgery is required or recommended only when other treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, heat therapy, or ointments do not work. There are some conditions that require elbow replacement these conditions include

Injuries that are caused due to any reason. So, therefore the broken or cracked bone in the elbow requires surgery when the condition is severe.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the person suffering from it faces a lot of joint pains, inflammation, swelling,  wear, and tear; therefore bones and cartilage in such cases a person may require elbow joint replacement surgery.

Osteoarthritis is another disease in which the cartilage in the joints gets worn out and therefore may require surgery.

Rukmani Birla Hospital is one of the best joint replacement hospitals in Jaipur.  We have a specialized team of doctors, orthopedic surgeons, therapists, and healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing the best treatment for joint replacement in Jaipur. If you have any queries regarding orthopedics contact us for expert assistance and care.