Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Surgery for Restoring Joint Function
To help you discuss elbow ligament reconstruction surgery as a treatment option with your orthopedic surgeon, here’s a breakdown of this surgical procedure.
Injuries to the Elbow
The elbow is a complex joint of the upper limb and is involved in basic movements, including flexion, extension, and rotation.
Because of its “busyness” in maintaining our day-to-day lives, the elbow is frequently the site of many common injuries and conditions, including: tennis elbow,golfer’s elbow, sprain, rupture, and trauma.
The common symptoms of injury to the elbow joint and its surrounding structures include swelling and pain, which may extend from the elbow to the forearm and palm.
How Is Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
Elbow ligament reconstruction surgery is performed for patients with ligament rupture. The orthopedic surgeon performs elbow ligament reconstruction surgery according to the following procedure:
- Make an incision over the elbow to move muscles, tendons, and nerves out of the way.
- Remove a tendon from the forearm for use in the elbow.
- Drill holes into the bones of the upper arm and forearm, and around the elbow joint.
- Insert the tendon through the drilled holes and attach it to the bone surfaces with special sutures.
- Close the incision with sutures and cover it with a sterile dressing.
- Apply a splint to support the elbow for a few weeks.
What Happens After Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Surgery?
The orthopedic surgeon will provide post-operative care instruction to help ensure the success of the surgery, including:
- Wearing a removable splint immediately after surgery
- Reducing pain, swelling, or muscle spasms using ice therapy, electrical stimulation, and massage
- Participating in isometric exercises, strengthening, and range of motion exercises for long-term rehabilitation
What Are the Risks and Complications of Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Surgery?
As with all surgeries, elbow ligament reconstruction surgery may be associated with certain risks and complications, including infection, injury to the adjacent nerve and blood vessels, stiffness, and a loss of strength or flexibility of the elbow joint.
Your elbow is critical for your day-to-day life. Don’t live through the pain and discomfort when we can help solve it. See if elbow ligament reconstruction surgery is right for you.