Total Elbow Replacement Surgery

With arthritis of the elbow, even simple movement can be extremely painful. This is common with rheumatoid arthritis but can also follow trauma. To replace an elbow joint, a posterior surgical approach first protects the ulnar nerve. Then arthritic portions of humerus and ulna are removed and a metal joint is cemented into place. The triceps muscle is reattached using sutures. This procedure can provide pain relief and restore joint motion.