Elbow Arthroscopy, Thibodaux LA - John Hildenbrand, Elbow Surgeon
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Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows a us to look inside a joint using small incisions (portals) and instruments the width of a pencil. Most people are aware of knee and shoulder arthroscopy, but the elbow joint has many conditions that can be treated with arthroscopy as well. The elbow is the joint that connects the upper arm bone and the forearm bones. Because the incisions used with elbow arthroscopy are smaller and disrupt less soft tissue than conventional open surgery, pain, swelling and stiffness are minimized and recovery is often faster.
The role of elbow arthroscopy in the treatment of elbow disorders has been dramatically increasing over the past few years. There are a variety of conditions for which elbow arthroscopy can be useful in diagnosis as well as treatment, including arthritis, loose bodies in the joint, tennis elbow, stiffness and fractures. Fractures and other injuries to the elbow can lead to significant stiffness of the joint. Stiff, contracted elbows are being released more frequently by elbow arthroscopy. Although not curable by arthroscopy, patients with arthritis of the elbow can enjoy significant improvement in symptoms and function after arthroscopy. After physical examination, X-rays or other studies such as CT or MRI scanning, we may recommend an arthroscopic procedure for treatment of your elbow disorder.
After Elbow Arthroscopy
As with any surgery, elbow arthroscopy has risks. These include infection and potential damage to nerves and arteries. Stiffness may need to be addressed through post operative rehabilitation.