Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure where the arthritic or damaged joint surface is removed and replaced with a new artificial one. The purpose of this article was to find out how the function of the elbow is affected after arthroplasty and find solutions to help patients who undergo this procedure.

Introduction to Primary Elbow Arthroplasty

The elbow joint is the point where the bones of the forearm meet with those of the upper arm. It allows for movement in many directions, including flexion, extension, pronation, and supination. Elbow problems are not uncommon because it is a weight-bearing joint where there is constant friction between cartilage surfaces. Primary elbow arthroplasty is surgery to replace diseased or damaged parts of the elbow joint with prosthetic material. The surgery can be done by either removing some or all of the joint surfaces or by replacing them with artificial replacements made of metal and plastic components.

Only one component of the joint may need to be replaced in some circumstances. If only the head of one of your forearm bones (radius) is damaged, a prosthetic head can be used to replace it.

The ends of the bones that come together in the elbow will be removed if the complete joint needs to be replaced. Bones are hollow tubes with a soft interior. The artificial joint’s long, slender ends are put into the softer center region of the bones.

There are two types of prosthetic devices available :

  • Linked: Because all of the elements of the replacement joint are connected, this form of prosthesis operates like a loose hinge. Although this provides high joint stability, the forces of movement can cause the prosthesis to come away from its insertion into the arm bones.
  • Unlinked: This device is made up of two components that are not connected. Because its design relies on the surrounding ligaments to keep the joint together, it is more prone to dislocation.

Dr. Sandeep Singh is one of the renowned and best orthopedic doctors in Bhubaneswar. If you are facing any discomfort at your joints and need orthopedics guidance you can visit Dr. Sandeep Singh. With his years of expertise in orthopedics, he is one of the leading orthopedic doctors in Bhubaneswar. 

Elbow Arthroplasty is one of the delicate surgeries and should only be performed under the guidance of the best orthopedic doctor.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

Primary elbow arthroplasty is a procedure that replaces the joint of the elbow. It relieves pain and restores mobility to the arm. In some cases, it can help people regain full use of their hands. This procedure is more expensive than other types of elbow surgery but is worthwhile for those who have certain symptoms or have been told they have chronic arthritis in this area.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

The risks associated with elbow arthroplasty are similar to those of other orthopedic procedures. These include bleeding, infection, blood clots, stiffness, and loss of motion.

Alternative treatments to primary elbow arthroplasty for arthritis

Elbow arthritis is a common condition that usually affects adults over the age of 50. The most common symptom is a pain in the elbow joint area, especially when carrying out activities that involve putting strain on the joint.

There are two main types of treatment for this condition: primary elbow arthroplasty and alternative treatments.

Primary elbow arthroplasty involves removing the ends of the bone where it meets by fusing both with metal plates and screws.

Alternative treatments include oral medications, exercises, acupuncture, or other types of physical therapy.

Conclusion

Primary elbow arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that can be performed to relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis in the elbow joint. It requires the removal of all the damaged parts of the joint before fitting it with prosthetic anchors. The knee joint is cut and may require replacement if so, the damaged ends are taken out and implants are inserted.