Our Summary

This study aimed to look at complications from elbow arthroscopy (a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems in the elbow joint) over the past 16 years and to summarize the most reported safety techniques and risk factors. The researchers only considered studies published after 2005 in English, excluding studies on animals, children, and cadavers.

They found 52 suitable studies, with patients’ ages ranging from 31 to 65 years and body mass indexes from 26 to over 40 kg/m2. Mostly, men underwent the procedure. The most common procedure was debridement (removal of damaged tissue or foreign objects from a wound).

The researchers discovered that elbow arthroscopy has a relatively low overall complications rate, between 1.5 to 11%, and a low nerve injury rate, between 1.26 to 7.5%. The re-operation rate was between 2 to 18%.

Risk factors that could lead to complications include patient-related factors such as obesity, being a woman, being over 65 years old, having high blood sugar levels, having a disorder that causes the blood to clot too much, and tobacco and alcohol use. Other risk factors include previous elbow impairment/surgery and steroid injections around the time of the procedure.

FAQs

  1. What is the overall complication rate for elbow arthroscopy according to the study?
  2. What were the most common risk factors for complications after elbow arthroscopy?
  3. What was the most common procedure performed during elbow arthroscopy according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about elbow surgery is to follow the post-operative instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications. This may include keeping the elbow elevated, applying ice as directed, taking prescribed medications, attending physical therapy sessions, and avoiding certain activities that could put strain on the elbow during the healing process. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also help promote successful recovery after elbow surgery.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are recommended for elbow surgery typically have conditions such as osteoarthritis, loose bodies in the joint, ligament injuries, tendonitis, or fractures that have not healed properly. It is important for patients to discuss their specific condition and risk factors with their healthcare provider to determine if elbow surgery is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before elbow surgery:

  1. Patient experiences pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited range of motion in the elbow.
  2. Patient consults with a physician who recommends elbow arthroscopy as a treatment option.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations, such as imaging tests and blood work.
  4. Surgical date is scheduled, and patient receives instructions on pre-operative care and fasting.

After elbow surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes elbow arthroscopy procedure, which may involve debridement or other surgical techniques.
  2. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.
  3. Patient receives post-operative instructions on wound care, pain management, and physical therapy.
  4. Patient may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in the elbow post-surgery.
  5. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and progress.
  6. Patient may undergo rehabilitation or physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the elbow.
  7. Over time, patient experiences improved function and reduced pain in the elbow joint.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific procedure will be performed during my elbow surgery?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process?
  4. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing surgery?
  5. How many of these procedures have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  6. What can I do to reduce the risk of complications before and after the surgery?
  7. How long will I need to take off work or limit physical activity after the surgery?
  8. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and for how long?
  9. What symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes I should make to improve the outcome of the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Tsenkov T, Dimitrov N. Journal: Int Orthop. 2022 May;46(5):1073-1083. doi: 10.1007/s00264-022-05320-5. Epub 2022 Feb 2. PMID: 35106672