Total Elbow Replacement
If a disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or an injury has harmed your elbow, your doctor may recommend surgery to replace the joint, so you have less pain and can move better.
During elbow replacement, a surgeon replaces your elbow with an artificial joint made from two implants that attach to the bones in your arm. A metal and plastic hinge joins the implants together.
The procedure is similar to hip and knee replacements.
What Are the Risks?
The most common complications are:
- Infection.
- Injury to nerves and blood vessels.
- Allergic reaction to the artificial joint.
- Broken bone.
- Stiffness or instability of the joint.
- Loosening or wearing of the artificial parts
- Weakness or failure in the tendons of your arm
- Pain
What to Do Before the Operation?
Your doctor will ask you about your medical history. Tell them about any conditions you have, including allergies.
Also let your doctor know if you drink alcohol and what medicines you take. They also need to know about any vitamins, supplements, or herbal products you use.
If you smoke, you should stop before your surgery.
