Elbow replacement surgery
Arthroplasty for the elbow
Replacing the damaged surfaces of the elbow with a metal and plastic joint to increase mobility and reduce pain
Surgery to repair a damaged elbow joint
If your elbow joints have suffered wear and tear, a condition like arthritis or an injury, moving them can become progressively painful.
Your consultant may recommend elbow replacement surgery if other options like physiotherapy and medication haven't helped alleviate your condition.
Your consultant may recommend elbow replacement surgery if other options like physiotherapy and medication haven't helped alleviate your condition.
Need to know
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What happens during elbow replacement surgery? icon plus
An incision will be made in the back of your elbow joint to avoid the blood vessels and nerves that are on the inside of the elbow. The tendons, ligaments and ulnar nerve are then eased aside to expose the joint. The joint surfaces are then removed and the marrow space within the ulna bone hollowed out to receive a metal stem.
The surgeon repeats the procedure on the humerus and the two bones are then prepared for the fixing in place of a prosthetic hinge, using either a medical adhesive or fine mesh, which supports bone regrowth. Once the prosthetic is in place, your surgeon will close the cut with stitches. -
How to prepare for surgery icon plus
Your consultant will inform you how best to prepare for your surgery. If you're having general anaesthetic, your consultant will let you know how long you should avoid eating or drinking for before your procedure. -
Post surgery recovery icon plus
You will be given painkillers to relieve any pain you experience immediately following surgery. Depending on your general fitness level, you may need to be cared for in hospital for up to two nights.
You will need to wear a sling for up to two weeks following surgery to support your arm. Your consultant will create a programme for you to rehabilitate your elbow with the physiotherapy team. They will also let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise and work.
Paying for medical treatment
You don’t need health insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.
Our elbow specialist consultants
We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic experts who specialise in diagnosing and managing disorders of the upper limbs, including the elbow and shoulder, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Our locations in London
From complex elbow surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Private Elbow replacement in Birmingham
Private Elbow Replacement in Manchester
Request an orthopaedic appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with an experienced orthopaedic or sports medicine consultant. We can also arrange imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments.
Call us today
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.