Our Summary

This research paper reviews studies on elbow joint replacement surgeries, including total elbow replacement, radial head replacement, lower arm bone (distal humeral) half-replacement, and replacement of the joint between the radius and the cap-shaped end of the humerus (radiocapitellar arthroplasty). These types of surgeries are not very common. The authors searched online medical databases for studies published between 1990 and early 2021.

They found 362 studies that fit their criteria. Most of these studies were looking at total elbow replacements. Most of the studies were also looking back at past cases (retrospective) and simply observing what happened (observational). The average study looked at 36 patients and followed up with them for about 56 months.

The researchers found that the studies used many different ways to describe and measure outcomes, which could make it difficult to compare results across studies. They concluded that there’s a need to define a standard set of outcomes and ways to measure them for future research in this area. This could help make future studies more useful and comparable.

FAQs

  1. What types of elbow replacement surgeries were reviewed in this research paper?
  2. How did the researchers gather data for their study on elbow joint replacement surgeries?
  3. What conclusion did the researchers come to about the methods used in the studies they reviewed?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about elbow surgery is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan carefully. This may include physical therapy exercises to help restore strength and flexibility in the elbow joint, as well as instructions for gradually increasing activity levels to prevent re-injury. It’s important to communicate with your healthcare team and follow their guidance to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for elbow surgery include those with severe arthritis, fractures, instability, or chronic pain in the elbow joint. Elbow surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections have not provided adequate relief. Patients with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, or complex fractures of the elbow may benefit from elbow surgery. Additionally, patients with limited range of motion or difficulty performing daily activities due to elbow pain may also be candidates for surgery.

Timeline

Before elbow surgery:

  • Patient experiences persistent pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion in the elbow joint.
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy, pain management, and other conservative treatments to manage symptoms.
  • Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scans are conducted to assess the severity of the condition and determine the need for surgery.
  • Patient consults with an orthopedic surgeon to discuss treatment options, risks, and benefits of elbow surgery.
  • Pre-operative evaluations and tests are performed to ensure the patient is a suitable candidate for surgery.

After elbow surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may involve total elbow replacement, radial head replacement, lower arm bone half-replacement, or radiocapitellar arthroplasty.
  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital or surgical center post-operatively for pain management, infection prevention, and recovery.
  • Patient undergoes physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength, range of motion, and function in the elbow joint.
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor healing, address any complications, and adjust treatment as needed.
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and may experience improved function and reduced pain in the elbow joint over time.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What type of elbow surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after surgery?
  4. What are the success rates and long-term outcomes of this type of surgery?
  5. How many of these surgeries have you performed, and what is your experience with this procedure?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for surgery?
  7. What can I do to prepare for surgery, both physically and mentally?
  8. Will I need any special equipment or assistance at home during the recovery period?
  9. How soon after surgery can I expect to return to my normal activities, such as work or exercise?
  10. What follow-up appointments or monitoring will be necessary after surgery?

Reference

Authors: Watts AC, Hamoodi Z, McDaid C, Hewitt C. Journal: Bone Joint J. 2022 Oct;104-B(10):1148-1155. doi: 10.1302/0301-620X.104B10.BJJ-2022-0570.R1. PMID: 36177646