During elbow resurfacing, damaged or diseased joint surfaces are replaced with metal parts. Healthy bone and tissues are left intact as much as possible.
Also Known As:
- Elbow resurfacing arthroplasty
- Elbow replacement
- Elbow bone loss surgery
Conditions Treated with Elbow Resurfacing:
Elbow resurfacing is utilized in order to treat avascular necrosis, post-trauma arthritis and osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow.
Non-surgical alternatives to elbow resurfacing include steroid injections, pain medication and physical therapy. Elbow replacement and elbow fusion are surgical alternatives to the procedure.
Anesthesia with Elbow Resurfacing:
Elbow resurfacing is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from Elbow Resurfacing:
Possible risks following elbow resurfacing include infection, bleeding, inflammation around the artificial joint, absorption of bone around artificial components, debris from artificial components and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. It is also possible to experience little to no improvement in elbow mobility.
Prognosis after Elbow Resurfacing:
The prognosis for a positive end result following elbow resurfacing is good.