ARTHROSCOPIC ELBOW SURGERY

If more conservative treatments, based in physiotherapy, have been unsuccessful, a specialist may proceed to arthroscopic surgical intervention of the elbow:

• The procedure is performed using general anesthesia and localized anesthesia (a “block”), which is only putting to sleep the arm that is going to be operated on. This is done to avoid postoperative pain.
• In most cases, the procedure is done on an outpatient basis, so that the patient does not have to stay in the hospital overnight.
• 2 or 3 small incisions is all that’s necessary for the arthroscope and surgical instruments to be inserted.

The duration of the surgery will vary depending on factors such as the type and magnitude of the injury being treated and the characteristics of the patient. In the case of an arthroscopic elbow surgery, the average time is between 45 and 90 minutes.

• Complete recovery of the joint after arthroscopic elbow surgery requires following the rehabilitation guidelines indicated by the surgeon and physiotherapist.
• Arthroscopic surgery requires intensive collaboration between doctor and patient, being more effective when a daily postoperative rehabilitation program is implemented.
• You will be provided with a detailed guide on the rehabilitation process. For more information, see your specific injury’s page.

The patient undergoing arthroscopic elbow surgery should adhere to the following guidelines:

• Your level of activity should be moderate. You should NOT do certain activities that could compromise the surgical procedure. These will be indicated to you by your doctor.
• It is vital that the patient understands the importance of the recovery process in its entirety and that they commit to actively participate in it, so that they do not damage the tissues that have been repaired by surgery.
• If you experience pain and discomfort in your elbow, an ice pack can be applied for 20-30 minutes at a time, which can be repeated every hour. The application of ice should be done using a light cloth that prevents skin burns. This measure gives very good results during the first 48 hours, although many patients extend it in time to reduce their postoperative pain up to 7-10 days.
• After arthroscopic elbow surgery, the bandages must be kept clean and dry. The surgical wound will be reviewed every 48-72 hours applying the appropriate antiseptic measures.
• After arthroscopic elbow surgery, your bandages must be kept clean and dry. The surgical wound will be reviewed every 48-72 hours applying the appropriate antiseptic measures.
• Once the stitches have been removed (after 10-14 days post-surgery), the patient can begin get the wound wet while showering.
• If there are no previous major complications, the first follow-up usually occurs around 10 days after surgery.
• The rehabilitation / physical therapy program will begin immediately, from the day after surgery, as it is considered key to its success. Its frequency and intensity is established according to the injury being treated.
• During the postoperative period, the patient must abstain from smoking and the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

• After arthroscopic elbow surgery, swelling and discomfort are usually experienced in the elbow for several days or up to a few weeks after surgery.
• Elbow stiffness must be avoided by following the medical mobilization guidelines indicated specifically for this purpose.