Elbow arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which the surgeon passes a thin camera and small instruments through small incisions to examine the elbow joint and treat its problems. It may be considered for pain, stiffness or loose fragments in the elbow that have not improved with non-surgical care.
Note: This is general information. The decision to perform arthroscopy is made by the surgeon after examination and imaging, and not every elbow pain needs it.
When Arthroscopy May Be Considered
Arthroscopy may be considered when the following are present and assessed by the surgeon:
- Ongoing elbow pain that has not improved with non-surgical care
- Stiffness and difficulty straightening or bending the elbow
- A feeling of locking or clicking in the joint
- Loose fragments inside the joint seen on imaging
- Pain after an injury or chronic inflammation in the joint
What Arthroscopy Can Address
Arthroscopy addresses problems inside or around the joint, such as:
- Loose pieces of cartilage or bone
- Scarring and adhesions that limit movement
- Bony spurs that block movement
- Cartilage damage and some sports injuries
- Inflammation of the joint lining
- Some long-standing tennis elbow cases after the surgeon's assessment
Diagnosis
The surgeon begins with a clinical examination, then X-rays, and may request an MRI or CT scan to see what is inside the joint. Other causes of pain are reviewed too, such as common elbow problems and nerve compression.
Whether you need arthroscopy can only be decided after an in-person examination.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Non-surgical treatment is usually tried before arthroscopy.
- Rest and activity changes
- Physiotherapy
- A brace when needed
- Local treatments under medical supervision
Surgical treatment
Arthroscopy is performed under anesthesia. Through small incisions the camera shows the joint on a screen, and the surgeon removes loose fragments, treats adhesions and spurs or repairs damage that suits an arthroscopic approach.
The operation is done through small incisions, but the elbow is a delicate joint close to nerves and vessels, and arthroscopy carries risks that the surgeon explains beforehand. No particular result can be guaranteed.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery time varies from person to person and is set by the surgeon after assessment. Rehabilitation focuses on keeping movement and preventing stiffness.
- Caring for the small wounds as the surgeon directs
- Raising the arm and controlling swelling and pain
- Starting elbow movement early as the surgeon instructs
- Exercises to regain movement and then strength, guided by a specialist
- A gradual return to activities and sport with the surgeon's approval
When to see the doctor
See an orthopedic surgeon if you have:
- Elbow pain that persists despite non-surgical care
- Stiffness that stops you straightening or bending the elbow
- Repeated locking or clicking in the joint
- Numbness or weakness in the hand
- Pain, warmth or redness after an earlier elbow procedure