What is Elbow Arthroscopy?

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia to address elbow injuries and conditions unresponsive to nonsurgical treatment. The procedure involves small incisions and the use of an arthroscope to view and repair damaged tendons, ligaments, or bones.

Common elbow arthroscopy procedures include bone spur removal for osteoarthritis, debris removal from torn cartilage, and joint capsule repair for stability or flexibility issues. A joint capsule release removes portions of the capsule, while a joint capsule tightening reattaches loose parts to the bone.

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure for elbow injuries and conditions that do not improve after nonsurgical treatment. Elbow arthroscopy is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. After the patient is comfortable, asleep, and positioned, the following procedure steps are performed:

• Small incisions are made in the area of the injury
• A small pencil shaped camera (an arthroscope) is passed into the incision
• The surgeon views the elbow from a nearby television monitor
• Damaged tendons, ligaments or bones can be repaired as the surgeon views the shoulder on the monitor

The patient’s injury or condition determines other procedure steps. Commonly performed elbow arthroscopy procedures and the conditions they treat include:

Bone spur removal. Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that destroys elbow cartilage and bone. Severe elbow osteoarthritis can cause bone on bone rubbing and the formation of bone spurs. Bone spurs may be smoothed using a small handheld shaver.

Debris removal. An accident, injury, or osteoarthritis may tear a piece of cartilage that subsequently sits in the elbow joint—causing pain and limiting motion. Tiny instruments are used to remove the torn cartilage.

Joint capsule repair. The elbow joint capsule stabilizes the joint. A loose capsule causes elbow instability, pain, weakness, and possibly subluxations or dislocations. A tight capsule causes elbow stiffness, pain, and decreased the range of motion. A joint capsule release removes pieces of the capsule. A joint capsule tightening will reattach loose parts of the capsule to the bone.

If you are in pain, please contact our office and make an appointment so your injury and symptoms can improve as quickly as possible.