Elbow Arthroscopy
Arthroscopy is the use of a camera and specialized equipment through small incisions to evaluate, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint.
What to Expect
Arthroscopy can be used for many conditions including release of scar tissue, debridement of arthritis,
removal of loose bodies, and treatment of cartilage damage. Through the use of smaller incision,
a faster and less painful recovery can be expected.
Arthroscopic surgery is done as an outpatient. Prior to surgery you will be asked to
see your primary care doctor for “medical clearance”. They may check blood tests, EKG, and a chest x-ray in addition to other tests they find indicated.
Once surgery is scheduled, the hospital or surgery center will contact you ahead of
time to provide specific details about your procedure. Please make sure to ask any questions
you have and follow the instructions on when to arrive and especially on when to stop eating or drinking prior to surgery.
On the day of surgery, the anesthesia staff will talk with you about anesthesia options.
You will be asleep for the procedure and often a regional nerve block is recommended to numb the arm for pain relief.
Once in the operating room, you will be positioned so that a clear view of the inside of
your elbow can be obtained. A member of the surgical team will clean the skin over the
shoulder with an antiseptic solution and a sterile drape will cover your elbow and arm
and your forearm will be placed in a holding device to ensure your arm stays still.
Through small incisions about the shoulder fluid flows through the arthroscope to keep
the view clear and control any bleeding. Images from the arthroscope are projected on the video screen showing the inside of your elbow and any damage.
Small instruments are placed through 1-3 separate incisions and can be used to shave,
cut, grasp, pass suture, and tie knots. Anchor are often used to hold stitches into bone.
At the completion of surgery the incisions are closed with stitches and covered them with a large, soft bandage.
Postoperatively you will stay in the recovery room for 1 to 2 hours before being
discharged home. Nurses will monitor your responsiveness and provide pain medication,
if needed. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night.
Recovery from elbow arthroscopy depends on the procedure performed but takes
several weeks and a few months before full recovery. You may find it comfortable sleeping in a reclining chair or propped.