Elbow Arthritis
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Costs
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What is elbow arthritis?
Elbow arthritis (osteoarthritis) is a condition characterized by destruction / degeneration of the articular surfaces of the elbow.
How is elbow arthritis caused? What are the main causes?
The causes of arthritis include the following:
Post-traumatic arthritis following an injury, fracture or dislocation of the elbow. It is the most common cause of elbow arthritis.
Inflammatory arthritis occurring in patients with rheumatological conditions
Post-infectious arthritis, as a result of an elbow infection
Degenerative arthritis, natural wear and tear with advancing age.
What are the main symptoms?
Patients may experience the following symptoms:
Severe pain throughout the elbow, especially towards the end of the day
Night pain that wakes the patient
Swelling (edema) of the elbow
Inability to flex and extend the elbow
Limited movement of the elbow
A grinding sensation during movement
How is the diagnosis made?
A patient with elbow arthritis requires assessment by a specialized Orthopaedic Surgeon. The doctor will take a medical history and examine the elbow. An X-ray of the elbow will be required to assess the degree of degeneration of the articular surfaces. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan of the elbow may also be required.
Conservative treatment for management and rehabilitation of elbow arthritis
Treatment in the early stages is conservative and includes the following:
Rest, activity modification, weight loss, exercise
Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Physiotherapy and a home exercise program
Injection of cortisone, hyaluronic acidor autologous healing factors (PRP)
Surgical Treatment – Elbow Arthroscopy
If conservative treatment fails, elbow arthroscopy is a treatment option in selected patients – mainly those with milder forms of arthritis. Elbow arthroscopy involves 3 incisions, each measuring 4 millimetres in length. Through these incisions, a camera with a cold light source and the necessary instruments are inserted into the elbow. During surgery, adhesions are released, loose cartilage bodies are removed and the degenerated articular surfaces are smoothed.
Surgical Treatment – Elbow Arthroplasty
If conservative treatment fails, elbow arthroplasty provides the definitive solution. Elbow arthroplasty is the replacement of the surfaces of the bones of the joint that come into contact and are usually worn. These surfaces are replaced with artificial implants, known as prostheses. The materials used are made of metal and are fully compatible with the human body.
How successful is elbow arthroplasty?
Elbow arthroplasty is a demanding surgical procedure and requires a specialized surgeon with a high volume of cases. In experienced hands, it provides excellent results both in eliminating pain and in restoring the patient’s function. It is a minimally invasive, bloodless and safe technique with low complication rates.
Pain relief is immediate and elbow movement is restored to a great extent. Patients follow fast-track recovery protocols (fast track surgery) and are discharged from the hospital the day after surgery.
The return to daily activities is gradual. Within a few days after arthroplasty, the patient is able to take care of themselves and perform the basic movements required in everyday life.
What is the cost of the surgery? How much does the operation cost?
The cost is quite affordable. For more information, please contact us.
If you have elbow arthritis, consult the specialized orthopaedic surgeon Mr Andreas Leonidou. The doctor has 14 years of continuous experience abroad and specializes in elbow conditions.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialized care and targeted treatment in just one visit.