In elbow arthritis the joint surface is destroyed by wear and tear, inflammation, injury, or previous surgery. This joint destruction makes the elbow stiff, painful, and unable to carry out its normal functions. Elbow joint replacement can be effective primarily in the management of severe elbow involvement from rheumatoid arthritis. After performing a clinical examination,and looking at xrays, we can determine if surgery is likely to be helpful.
The goal of elbow replacement arthroplasty is to restore functional mechanics to the joint by removing scar tissue, balancing muscles, and inserting a joint replacement in the place of the destroyed elbow. One part of the artificial joint is fixed to the inside of the humerus (arm bone) and the other part to the inside of the ulna (one of the forearm bones). The two parts are then connected using a hinge pin that gives the joint stability.
Though less common than hip and knee replacement in the Rheumatoid population, total elbow joint replacement arthroplasty is highly reliable--associated with a complication rate of less than 10%.
Elbow motion is started within the first week--as soon as the incision is ready. Patients learn to do their own physical therapy and are usually discharged 1-2 days after surgery when they are comfortable. The recovery of strength and function may continue for up to a year after surgery.
