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Elbow

Cartilage Damage
Osteoarthritis

Cartilage acts as a buffer tissue and covers the joint-forming bones within the joint. Cartilage damage occurs due to accidents or wear and tear. Furthermore, cartilage-bone damage can occur in the elbow region due to disturbed growth.

When is surgery needed?

Cartilage damage and stiffness of the elbow joint can be treated arthroscopically if conservative measures have not been successful in alleviating persistent pain or restricted movement.

What happens during surgery?

The treatment of cartilage damage and elbow joint stiffness is usually performed minimally invasively by means of arthroscopy. Such operations are particularly beneficial in cases of existing loose bodies and impingement structures within the joint. Once these are removed, the patient is usually quickly free of symptoms. Further measures include cartilage smoothing and the stimulation of cartilage growth. If the joint wear is too far advanced and the findings cannot be improved by arthroscopy, the elbow joint may need to be replaced with an artificial joint. There are different models for artificial elbow joint replacement. The specific model to be used depends on the extent of joint destruction and ligament stability.

Aftercare

After an elbow arthroscopy to address cartilage damage or joint stiffness, immobilisation is not required. Office workers are unfit for work for approximately 1 to 2 weeks, while those in physically demanding jobs may be off for up to two months post-operation. Post-operative treatment involves physiotherapy according to an individualized rehabilitation programme. Elbow joint replacement surgery is performed under inpatient conditions. After an elbow joint replacement operation, immobilisation is generally not required. Post-operative treatment involves physiotherapy according to an individualized rehabilitation programme. After discharge from the hospital, movement therapy should be continued, possibly in the form of inpatient / outpatient follow-up rehabilitation. A period of incapacity for work of 2 to 4 months should be anticipated.