Our Summary

This research paper is a study that identifies and analyzes the top 100 most-cited research papers related to elbow surgery. The study is intended to help surgeons and trainees identify key articles and topics in the field. The papers were divided into two groups: classical (published from 1980 to 2009) and contemporary (published from 2010 to 2019). The study found that the classical group had more papers with a lower level of scientific evidence compared to the contemporary group, which had more papers with a higher level of scientific evidence. This indicates that there has been a shift towards more rigorous, scientifically sound research in recent years. The most common topic in the classical group was elbow anatomy and function, while in the contemporary group, it was about a common type of elbow injury and its treatments. This study can guide surgeons and trainees to understand the most influential research in their field.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the study analyzing the top 100 most-cited research papers related to elbow surgery?
  2. What differences were found between the classical and contemporary groups of research papers in the study?
  3. What was the most common topic in the classical and contemporary groups of the elbow surgery research papers?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about elbow surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including physical therapy exercises and rest periods, to ensure proper healing and recovery. It is important to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to your doctor to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended elbow surgery include those with:

  1. Elbow fractures: Patients with severe fractures of the elbow may require surgical intervention to realign the bones and ensure proper healing.

  2. Elbow dislocations: Patients with recurrent or complex elbow dislocations may require surgery to stabilize the joint and prevent future dislocations.

  3. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Patients with severe and persistent symptoms of tennis elbow that do not improve with conservative treatments may benefit from surgery to remove damaged tissue and relieve pain.

  4. Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis): Patients with golfer’s elbow that does not respond to conservative treatments may require surgery to alleviate symptoms and improve function.

  5. Ulnar nerve compression (cubital tunnel syndrome): Patients with severe ulnar nerve compression at the elbow may require surgery to release the pressure on the nerve and improve symptoms.

  6. Elbow arthritis: Patients with advanced elbow arthritis that causes significant pain and limitations in function may benefit from elbow replacement surgery.

  7. Elbow instability: Patients with chronic elbow instability due to ligament injuries or other structural abnormalities may require surgery to stabilize the joint and prevent further damage.

Overall, patients who have persistent symptoms, significant functional limitations, or failed conservative treatments for elbow conditions may be recommended for surgery to improve their quality of life and restore proper function to the joint.

Timeline

Before elbow surgery:

  • Patient experiences pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow
  • Patient consults with a doctor or orthopedic surgeon for evaluation and diagnosis
  • Doctor recommends conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or medication
  • If conservative treatments are ineffective, doctor recommends elbow surgery
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure they are fit for surgery

After elbow surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure under anesthesia
  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home or to a hospital room
  • Patient follows post-operative care instructions, which may include pain management, wound care, and physical therapy
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress
  • Patient gradually resumes activities and exercises to regain strength and function in the elbow
  • Patient may experience some discomfort and stiffness during the recovery period, which can vary depending on the type of surgery performed
  • Patient continues to follow up with the surgeon for long-term monitoring and management of the elbow condition.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about elbow surgery include:

  1. What is the specific reason for recommending elbow surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. What is the expected outcome of the surgery and the recovery process?
  4. How long will it take to recover fully and return to normal activities?
  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  6. How many elbow surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments to surgery that could be considered?
  8. What type of rehabilitation or physical therapy will be needed after the surgery?
  9. Will there be any restrictions on activities or movements after the surgery?
  10. How long will the effects of the surgery last, and are there any long-term considerations to be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Worden JA, Gabig AM, Cooke HL, Gottschalk MB, Wagner ER. Journal: J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. 2024 Feb 29;8(3):e23.00287. doi: 10.5435/JAAOSGlobal-D-23-00287. eCollection 2024 Mar 1. PMID: 38421605