The elbow is a complex joint composed of bones, cartilage, ligaments and fluid and performs many essential functions. Most elbow problems are overuse injuries caused by repetitive strain. Mr George-Malal uses keyhole surgery, known as elbow arthroscopy, to treat various elbow problems.
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive, keyhole surgery that allows Mr George-Malal to see inside the joint to diagnose and treat certain conditions.
You are an ideal candidate for elbow arthroscopy if you are in pain and have lost range of motion, affecting your ability to perform everyday activities. Typically, you will be prescribed conservative, non-surgical treatments first, such as physical therapy, medications or injections, but if they have failed to deliver any relief, you may be suitable for surgical intervention.
During the procedure, it’s possible to fish out loose bits of bone or cartilage from within the joint or clean up an elbow joint if it has stiffened up from a previous injury or arthritis.
However, if an open surgery is more appropriate for your condition, then Mr George-Malal would explain this.
What conditions can elbow arthroscopy treat?
Upper limb conditions that can be treated with this surgical approach include:
• Elbow arthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Tennis elbow
• Release of scar tissue
• Removal of loose cartilage or bone fragments
• Treatment of fractures
More complex elbow conditions, such as complex fractures or repair of the collateral ligaments, may require open surgery.
What happens during an elbow arthroscopy procedure?
During the operation, a very tiny camera known as an arthroscope is inserted into the elbow joint through a tiny incision. Mr George-Malal is able to then see inside the joint to diagnose any elbow conditions and, if required, miniature surgical instruments can be inserted through the same incision to correct any issues.
Elbow arthroscopy is typically performed as a day case procedure conducted under a general anaesthetic. It usually lasts between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
What are the advantages of elbow arthroscopy over open surgery?
The incisions in keyhole surgery are much smaller than those in open surgery. Typically, this means less soft tissue damage, resulting in less post-operative discomfort, and you make a faster recovery and get back to what you want to do in life, whether it be work or leisure. You may also be able to go home the same day after the surgery, and there are no long, ugly scars.
