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Arthroplasty (Joint Replacement)

Elbow Replacement

OVERVIEW

Elbow replacement is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain and restoring function in an elbow joint that has been damaged by injury, arthritis, or other degenerative conditions. During the procedure, the affected parts of the elbow joint are removed and replaced with synthetic components, allowing for smoother movement and improved overall joint function.

Types of ELBOW REPLACEMENT:

There are different types of elbow replacement procedures, each tailored to the specific needs of the patient. The main categories include:

  • Total Elbow Replacement: In this procedure, both the humeral and ulnar parts of the elbow joint are replaced with prosthetic components, restoring the joint's function and reducing pain.
  • Partial Elbow Replacement: This approach is used when only one part of the elbow joint is damaged. The affected area is replaced with a prosthetic component while preserving the healthy parts of the joint.
CAUSES
Several factors can lead to the need for elbow replacement, including:
  • Osteoarthritis: The most common cause, characterised by the gradual wear and tear of the joint cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that affects the joint lining, causing inflammation and pain that can lead to joint degeneration over time.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Resulting from a severe elbow injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, which causes the joint to deteriorate over time.
  • Elbow Instability: Chronic instability due to ligament damage or previous injuries may require elbow replacement to restore joint function.
SYMPTOMS
Patients who may need elbow replacement often experience the following symptoms:
  • Chronic Elbow Pain: Persistent pain that does not improve with conservative treatments.
  • Restricted Range of Motion: Difficulty in fully extending or flexing the elbow, which can interfere with daily activities.
  • Swelling and Stiffness: Swelling and stiffness that progressively worsen, reducing joint mobility.
TREATMENT
Before recommending surgery, Mr du Plessis may explore conservative treatments, including:
  • Physiotherapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve joint flexibility.
  • Medications: Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help manage symptoms.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Changes to daily activities to lessen the strain on the elbow joint.
SURGERY
If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Elbow replacement surgery can be a life-changing procedure, significantly improving the quality of life for those suffering from severe elbow conditions.

FAQ

What is the recovery process like after elbow replacement surgery?
recovery process varies, but physiotherapy is generally essential. Patients can expect gradual improvement in pain relief and increased elbow function over several weeks, with significant progress by 6 weeks.
Are there any risks associated with elbow replacement surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, implant loosening, or nerve damage. However, these risks are minimised through careful planning and surgical expertise.
How long does the artificial elbow joint last?
The longevity of the prosthetic elbow joint can vary, but with proper care, it can last for many years, allowing patients to enjoy an improved quality of life. Following surgery there with be restriction on the weight allowed through the elbow joint so as to maximally prolong the implant survival

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    PUBLICATIONS

    Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
    Classification in Blount’s Disease

    DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.

     

    The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg

    Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.

    Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection

    DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020

     

    Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.

    Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4