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Elbow Replacement
Elbow Replacement
What is Elbow Replacement Surgery
Elbow replacement surgery is a surgical procedure that replaces the elbow joint bones with an artificial elbow joint. It is successful in relieving pain for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and elbow injuries.
The Artificial Elbow
The prosthetic elbow joint is composed of two parts:
- The Humeral Component
The lower part of the humerus in the upper arm is replaced by the humeral component. It is anchored into the hollow interior of the humerus by a long stem. - The Ulnar Component
The upper part of the ulna in the lower arm is replaced by the ulnar component. It is anchored into the hollow interior of the ulna by a shorter metal stem.
A hinge connects the humeral and ulnar components that are made of plastic and metal. A cemented or un-cemented prosthesis is used to keep the artificial elbow in position.
How is the Elbow Replacement Performed?
- A surgical incision is made on the patient's arm to expose the elbow joint.
- The injured tissue and bones of the elbow joint are removed.
- A hole is drilled into the middle of the upper and lower arm bones.
- The stem ends of the artificial elbow joints are put into both the bones.
- A hinge is used to attach the two stems.
- The incision is closed with stitches and covered with a bandage.
- A splint may be used to keep the arm stable.
How to Prepare for the Elbow Replacement?
- The patient needs to undergo a physical checkup.
- The doctor should be informed about any medication that the patient is taking with or without a prescription. These may include supplements or herbs or drugs.
- Certain medication that the patient is taking may be stopped two weeks before the surgery.
- The doctor should be informed if the patient has any ailments or medical conditions.
- The doctor should be informed if the patient has been drinking more than 2 drinks of alcohol per day.
- The patient may be required to meet the physical or occupational therapist to learn some exercises before the surgery.
What are the tests required?
The tests required before the procedure is X- rays.
How much time is required?
The procedure takes about 2 hours whereas the hospital stay would be around 1-3 days. The patient needs to stay in India for about 2-4 weeks.
What is the cost of the procedure?
The cost of replacing one elbow is 6000-7000 USD
What type of anesthesia will be given?
General or regional anesthesia depending on the patient
How will patient recover?
- The patient is taken to the recovery room to be monitored until the effect of anesthesia diminishes. - The patient may be required to use a splint in the arm to support the elbow. Ice pack may also be wrapped around the arm to ease the pain and swelling. - The stitches are removed after 10 days. - Swelling and pain will remain for 2 to 4 weeks and the patient will need help with daily activities for about 6 weeks. - Pain medication will be prescribed by the doctor. - The patient may be able to start using the arm in about 12 weeks. - A full recovery may take approximately one year.
What should be cared?
- The patient is taken to the recovery room to be monitored until the effect of anesthesia diminishes. - The patient may be required to use a splint in the arm to support the elbow. Ice pack may also be wrapped around the arm to ease the pain and swelling. - The stitches are removed after 10 days. - Swelling and pain will remain for 2 to 4 weeks and the patient will need help with daily activities for about 6 weeks. - Pain medication will be prescribed by the doctor. - The patient may be able to start using the arm in about 12 weeks. - A full recovery may take approximately one year.
