Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow Arthroscopy Surgeon
Are you an athlete who participates in sports that require repetitive throwing motions or lifting overhead? If so, you may be at risk of developing an elbow injury. Elbow arthroscopy is an important surgical technique designed to treat an extensive array of elbow injuries in a minimally invasive way with limited soft tissue damage. Elbow surgeon, Dr. Nikhil Verma performs elbow arthroscopy for patients in Chicago who have sustained an elbow injury that requires surgery. Contact Dr. Verma’s team today!
An Overview on Elbow Arthroscopy as a Minimally Invasive
Elbow arthroscopy has been used for many years to inspect, diagnose and repair elbow injuries and degenerative conditions within the joint. This minimally invasive elbow surgery requires Dr. Nikhil Verma, orthopedic elbow surgeon serving the Chicago, Westchester, Oak Brook and Hinsdale, Illinois area, to insert a small camera into the joint and use special surgical instruments to repair the damage. The camera, otherwise known as an arthroscope, allows Dr. Verma to inspect the damaged area and reach a definite diagnosis. Once the elbow injury is diagnosed, Dr. Verma will use special surgical instruments placed into the joint to repair damaged tendons and cartilage and remove any loose bodies.
Elbow arthroscopy allows a patient to recover more quickly with less post-operative pain and complications in most cases. Generally performed on an out-patient basis under general anesthesia, this elbow surgery technique is highly effective at treating a number of elbow injuries that did not respond well to non-operative measures such as rest, ice and physical therapy.
Arthroscopic elbow surgery is used to treat a variety of elbow injuries, including:
- Ligament and/or tendon tears
- Elbow arthritis
- Loose bodies
- Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
Recovery and Rehabilitation after Elbow Arthroscopy
Recovery from elbow arthroscopy is much quicker than an open surgery technique, but certain rehabilitation protocols must be followed so the elbow joint has time to fully recover. It is very important to follow all rehabilitation guidelines provided by Dr. Verma and his team following elbow surgery.
Many patients will experience elbow discomfort and swelling up to a week after the procedure. Dr. Verma typically recommends patients apply ice packs to the affected elbow to minimize pain and swelling. Pain medications may be prescribed and patients are expected to follow dosage guidelines at all times.
Physical therapy is generally started immediately following elbow arthroscopy since motion recovery is key to a full and successful recovery. Dr. Verma will provide a physical therapy program to all patients to help strengthen the elbow joint and surrounding structures.
Elbow Arthroscopy FAQ
What is elbow arthroscopy?
An elbow arthroscopy is a specialized procedure used to inspect, diagnose, and repair problems inside the elbow joint. During elbow arthroscopy, Dr. Verma uses a small camera, which displays a clear and accurate view of the joint on a television screen. Small, specialized instruments are then used to repair problems inside the elbow joint. Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure and offers the benefits of quicker healing times, less pain, and less chance of infection.
How do I know if I need elbow surgery?
When non surgical treatments have failed to alleviate pain and restore elbow function, Dr. Verma may suggest elbow surgery. The decision is usually made between the patient and Dr. Verma when the patient’s elbow pain is bad enough to interfere with daily activities.
What is elbow arthroscopic debridement?
Arthroscopic debridement of the elbow is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove unhealthy, torn tendon tissue. During this procedure, Dr. Verma carefully removes the jagged pieces of tissue and repairs the portion of the tendon that can be repaired.
How should I sleep after elbow surgery?
Patients who undergo elbow surgery may find it most comfortable to sleep in an east chair or recliner for the first few days. Although a sling is placed immediately after surgery to protect the healing joint, patients are allowed to sleep without the sling.
Is elbow surgery painful?
Patients often feel less pain after elbow surgery than before the procedure. Dr. Verma will caution patients to follow his post-operative protocol and avoid doing too much too soon. Most post-surgery discomfort can be alleviated with over the counter pain relievers.
For additional resources on elbow arthroscopy as a minimally invasive elbow surgery, please contact the office of Dr. Nikhil Verma, Chicago, Westchester, Oak Brook and Hinsdale, Illinois area elbow surgeon.
