Elbow Replacement

Why Should You Choose CHRISTUS for Elbow Replacement?

CHRISTUS combines highly skilled surgeons with advanced technology to provide exceptional care near home.

• Reclaim Your Life: CHRISTUS can help you return to doing what you love. You can regain your mobility, reduce pain, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
• Expert Care, Close to Home: Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons specializing in elbow replacement are here in your community, ready to provide personalized care tailored to your needs.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: Your journey to recovery starts with a plan designed just for you. Our team creates personalized treatment plans to address your unique goals and help you return to the activities that matter most.

Who is Elbow Replacement for?

Elbow replacement surgery is typically recommended for individuals who have severe pain, loss of function, or joint damage that cannot be managed with non-surgical treatments. It is commonly performed for:

• Severe Arthritis – Patients with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis who experience chronic pain, stiffness, and difficulty using the elbow.
• Severe Fractures – Especially in older adults with complex fractures of the distal humerus (the lower end of the upper arm bone) that may not heal well with other treatments.
• Joint Instability or Deformity – Conditions that cause ongoing elbow dislocations or malalignment that impair movement and cause pain.
• Failed Previous Surgery – Patients with unsuccessful previous elbow surgeries, such as fracture repairs or partial joint replacements, may need a total elbow replacement.
• Traumatic Injuries – Severe injuries from accidents or falls that damage the elbow joint beyond repair.

Signs You May Need Elbow Replacement

You may need an elbow replacement if you experience persistent symptoms that significantly impact your daily life. Here are some key signs:

Severe and Chronic Pain

• Constant pain in the elbow that doesn't improve with medications, rest, or physical therapy.
• Pain that worsens with movement or even at rest.

Loss of Mobility and Function

• Difficulty bending or straightening your arm.
• Weak grip strength or trouble holding objects.
• Inability to perform everyday tasks like lifting, dressing, or eating.

Joint Stiffness and Swelling

• Stiffness that limits your ability to move the elbow properly.
• Swelling or inflammation that doesn’t go away with treatment.

Instability or Weakness

• Feeling like your elbow is unstable or "giving out" when using it.
• Weakness in the arm that affects your ability to perform simple movements.

Severe Arthritis or Joint Damage

• Advanced osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis affecting the joint.
• Significant joint degeneration seen on X-rays or imaging.

Previous Injuries or Failed Surgeries

• A history of severe fractures that didn’t heal properly.
• Prior elbow surgeries that failed to relieve pain or restore function.

If these symptoms interfere with your quality of life and non-surgical treatments aren’t helping, it might be time to discuss elbow replacement with an orthopedic specialist. Would you like information on treatment options before surgery?

What to Expect Before, During, and After Elbow Replacement Surgery

Before Surgery

• Medical Evaluation: Physical exam, imaging (X-rays, MRI), and blood tests.
• Medication Adjustments: Blood thinners and chronic condition management.
• Pre-Surgical Prep: Fasting, arranging home support, and possible prehab exercises.

During Surgery

• Anesthesia: General anesthesia or a nerve block.
• Procedure: Damaged bone is removed, and a prosthetic joint is placed.
• Duration: Surgery takes about 1-2 hours.

After Surgery

• Hospital Stay: Usually 1-2 days with pain management and early movement.
• Recovery at Home: Arm immobilization, wound care, and avoiding heavy lifting.
• Physical Therapy: Gradual range-of-motion and strength-building exercises.
• Full Recovery: Typically, 3-6 months.

Contact your doctor if you experience increased pain, swelling, fever, or numbness.

Advanced Elbow Care, Focused on You

CHRISTUS orthopedic teams are committed to high standards of patient care, innovative techniques, and research-backed treatment approaches:

• Heal Faster: Our process is designed to get you up and walking on surgery day, with most patients going home quickly and safely.
• Recover More Comfortably: We use advanced pain management techniques to reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
• Feel More Prepared: From pre-surgery education to a personalized recovery plan, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
• Experience Seamless Care: Your surgeons, nurses, and therapists follow a team-based approach, so every step is coordinated.
• Get the Best Outcomes: Our program is built on the latest research and continuously improved to provide the highest level of care.

Find a CHRISTUS Orthopedics Clinic Near You

With CHRISTUS Orthopedics, you can access highly skilled surgeons and advanced care in your community. Using minimally invasive techniques and personalized treatment plans, we help you recover faster and get back to the life you love.

Take the first step toward your new pain-free normal.