Elbow Replacement

Some people refer to the elbow as 'the funny bone,' but there is nothing funny about elbow pain and stiffness. Although total elbow replacement is less common than knee or hip replacement, elbow replacement surgery can provide pain relief and improved range of motion.

The elbow joint is at the junction of three arm bones – the humerus, ulna and radius. Muscles, tendons and ligaments hold everything together. When medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or severe fractures cause inflammation, pain and instability, a partial or total elbow replacement may provide relief.

The highly-skilled orthopedic surgeons affiliated with Texas Orthopedic Hospital, many of whom are part of the globally recognized Fondren Orthopedic Group, are elbow replacement specialists.

Elbow Replacement Surgery

Before an elbow replacement surgery at Texas Orthopedic Hospital is performed, the surgeon and physical or occupational therapist will meet with the patient to discuss the entire procedure and to set up a rehabilitation plan to improve the patient's range of motion.

During elbow replacement, a surgeon replaces your elbow with an artificial joint made from two implants that attach to the bones in your arm. A metal and plastic hinge joins the implants together.

Elbow replacement surgery is performed on an inpatient basis and typically requires a one- to two-night stay. Recovery can take as little as three months and consists of treatments to manage pain and swelling, and exercises to strengthen the elbow and restore range of motion. Patients initially work with physical therapists in our Rehabilitation Department then continue with exercises on their own at home.

Patients are advised to take care of their new joint by avoiding playing contact sports, lifting heavy weights or engaging in other activities that my cause further injury. Unlike knee or hip replacements, it is advised that the patient avoid lifting heavy objects for the duration of the elbow replacement.

Elbow Replacement Specialists

Texas Orthopedic Hospital and our affiliated surgeons have long been recognized for providing our joint patients, including our elbow joint replacement patients, with the highest level of care. We've been named one of Healthgrades' America's Best Hospitals for Joint Replacement™. We have also have received the Healthgrades Joint Replacement Excellence Award and have been named Among the Top 10% in the Nation for Joint Replacement.