Elbow Replacement

Elbow Replacement abroad

The elbow is the joint between the arm and the forearms and is composed of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the ulna (forearm bone on the pinky finger side) and the radius (forearm bone on the thumb side). The reasons why this joint needs to be replaced when other therapies to relieve the pain and discomfort have failed, are very similar to the ones that affect hips and knees. One of these is osteoarthritis, in which the cartilage that serves as cushion between the bones gets weaker and wears away with age. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, affects the membrane that covers the joint and leads to inflammation and difficulty moving. Post-traumatic arthritis occurs when the bones that compose the elbow are fractured.

There are two main types of elbow replacement: half elbow replacement, which is possible only in certain situations and if the damage of the joint is not too extended, and total replacement. During the total replacement procedure, the surgeon will perform a cut on the back of the elbow in order to reach the joint. After this, the muscles will be repositioned to allow access to the bone. Before placing the prosthetic joint the surgeon will have to remove the scar tissue that have formed around the joint, and prepare the humerus in order to fit the metallic prothesis part that will replace that side of the elbow.

The same procedure is performed for the ulna. The metal stems are placed inside the humerus and ulna, and kept in place with a special bone cement. These two parts are then connected by a hinge pin. After the surgery the surgeon might decide to place a temporary catheter to drain the fluids that have formed, and prescribe painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infections. The patient will be able to leave the hospital after 2-4 days and will need to observe a careful and delicate rehabilitation plan after the surgery and not lift heavy weights for at least 6 weeks after the surgery.

Where can I find Elbow Replacement abroad?

Elbow Replacement at clinics and hospitals in India Elbow Replacement at clinics and hospitals in Germany Elbow Replacement at clinics and hospitals in South Korea,