Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that diagnoses and treats various conditions affecting the elbow.
This surgery begins with Dr. Pournaras inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into your elbow through small incisions. This allows him to see the structures inside your elbow, such as the bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons, on a monitor in real time. Dr. Pournaras can then move forward to treat the injuries and create a post-surgical plan for recovery.
Arthroscopy can be used to diagnose and treat a wide range of elbow conditions, including:
.
Overall, elbow arthroscopy is a valuable surgical technique for diagnosing and treating various elbow conditions. Compared to traditional open surgery, it offers patients the potential for faster recovery, less postoperative pain, and an improved outcome.
During elbow arthroscopy, the patient is placed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (nerve block) to ensure comfort and immobility during the procedure. Dr. Pournaras will then make small incisions around the elbow and insert the arthroscope and specialized surgical instruments through these incisions. The arthroscope transmits images of the inside of the joint to a monitor, allowing him to assess the extent of damage and perform necessary corrections, such as removing loose bodies, debriding damaged tissue, repairing ligaments or tendons, or smoothing roughened cartilage surfaces. Once the procedure is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures or sterile strips, and a bandage or dressing is applied to the elbow.
Recovery: The recovery from elbow arthroscopy varies depending on the specific procedure performed, the extent of the injury or condition being treated, and patient factors such as age and overall health. In general, patients can expect to experience some discomfort, swelling, and stiffness in the elbow following surgery, which can be managed with pain medications, ice therapy, and arm elevation.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are typically prescribed to improve the elbow joint’s range of motion, strength, and function.
Most patients can resume light activities within a few days to weeks after surgery, with full recovery usually taking several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s progress.
Benefits: Elbow arthroscopy offers several potential benefits compared to traditional open surgery, including:
For over 30 years, Virginia Board Certified Physician, Dr. Stephen W. Pournaras, Jr. has provided excellent healthcare and treatment for his patients. As a multi-specialty orthopedic practice, offering the best for you medically to treat, heal and lead you to optimum recovery. We are dedicated to using state-of-the-art technology while building nurturing relationships with each of our patients.
Contact Us Today.
