Elbow Replacement

Overview

As a result of surgical techniques developed at Mayo Clinic, elbow replacement is a highly effective treatment option for patients with severe elbow arthritis or difficult-to-treat elbow fractures. Researchers at Mayo Clinic apply the technology originally designed for hip and knee replacement to techniques for elbow replacement, including arthroscopic, or minimally invasive, surgery to replace the elbow joint. Most patients experience pain relief for many years after elbow-replacement surgery.

Diagnosis

Patients may develop elbow pain and stiffness as a result of severe arthritis, elbow injuries or other conditions. Replacement surgery of the elbow joint is considered only for patients who have first tried nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, lifestyle changes, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and bracing, and other less invasive surgical treatments. Read more about diagnosis and candidates for treatment.

Treatment Options

Mayo Clinic provides state-of-the-art elbow surgery, including open surgery, arthroscopic (minimally invasive) elbow replacement, and surgical alternatives to replacing the elbow joint, such as synovectomy, debridement, osteocapsular arthroplasty and interposition arthroplasty. Read more about the types of surgery available.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota

About Elbow Replacement Surgery

Elbow replacement surgery involves surgical replacement of an elbow joint damaged by a severe injury, arthritis or other condition. Patients who have tried medications and exercise without success may find that surgery can help relieve the pain and increase motion.