Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow Treatments & Surgeries Provided by an Orthopaedic Specialist Based in Adelaide
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat a variety of painful elbow conditions that do not improve with non-surgical care.
The most common causes leading to elbow arthroscopy include loose bodies such as cartilage or bone fragments that cause the elbow to lock or catch, arthritis-related changes like bone spurs (osteophytes) that restrict movement, and chronic elbow stiffness or contractures.
Patients with severe or persistent tennis elbow that fails to respond to physiotherapy and injections may also be candidates for arthroscopic surgery.
In some cases, intra-articular fractures or complications after injury are best managed with elbow arthroscopy to restore mobility and function.
Symptoms That May Lead to Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow arthroscopy is typically recommended for patients experiencing ongoing pain and functional limitations.
The most common symptoms include persistent elbow pain that does not resolve with rest, medication, or therapy, as well as mechanical problems such as locking, catching, or clicking.
Many patients also report stiffness and reduced range of motion, which can interfere with sports, work, or daily tasks. Swelling, grinding, and impingement sensations, particularly when bending or straightening the elbow, are also signs that may indicate the need for arthroscopic surgery.
How Elbow Arthroscopy Is Diagnosed
The diagnosis of elbow conditions requiring arthroscopy involves a detailed clinical evaluation and imaging tests.
During the physical examination, Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell assesses pain, stiffness, and mechanical symptoms. Imaging is essential to confirm the diagnosis and plan the surgical approach. Standard X-rays are used to detect bone spurs, arthritis, or fractures.
Elbow arthroscopy to remove loose bone fragment
CT scans provide detailed images of bone structures and loose fragments, while MRI scans evaluate cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue around the joint. Based on these findings, the surgeon can determine whether non-surgical treatments will help or whether arthroscopic elbow surgery is the best option.
Treatment Options for Elbow Conditions
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell performs Elbow Arthroscopy through several small incisions around the joint. During the procedure, Dr Brumby-Rendell inserts a thin camera (arthroscope) into the elbow to view the joint structures on a monitor. Specialised surgical instruments are then used to perform the necessary repairs or clean-up while preserving surrounding tissues.
Common procedures include:
- Removal of loose bodies such as bone or cartilage fragments that cause locking or catching.
- Debridement of inflamed tissue, damaged cartilage, or scar tissue.
- Capsular release to restore motion in a stiff elbow.
- Osteophyte removal to relieve impingement caused by arthritis.
- Tendon debridement for chronic tennis elbow when nonoperative care fails.
- Fracture-related procedures in selected cases where minimally invasive access improves recovery.
Because the surgery uses small incisions rather than a large open approach, patients typically experience less pain, reduced stiffness, and faster recovery compared with traditional elbow surgery.
Most procedures are performed as day surgery, allowing patients to return home the same day with a tailored rehabilitation plan.
View of Elbow Arthroscopy
Rehabilitation After Elbow Arthroscopy
Recovery and rehabilitation after elbow arthroscopy are important for achieving the best long-term results.
Most patients go home the same day of surgery. A splint or supportive dressing may be used immediately after the procedure, and keeping the arm elevated reduces swelling and pain. Rehabilitation protocols vary depending on the type of surgery performed.
In some cases, patients begin gentle range-of-motion exercises almost immediately, while in others, movement is delayed to protect healing tissues. Physiotherapy plays a key role in regaining flexibility and strength, and most patients return gradually to work, sports, and normal activities over several weeks to months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most elbow arthroscopies are performed under general anesthesia, but in some cases a regional nerve block may be used. Your anaesthetist will discuss the safest and most comfortable option for you.
Elbow Arthroscopy by Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon in Adelaide specialising in shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand conditions.
As a founding director of the Adelaide Shoulder & Upper Limb Clinic, Dr Brumby-Rendell offers advanced arthroscopic elbow surgery for patients with joint stiffness, arthritis, tennis elbow, and other painful conditions. His expertise in minimally invasive techniques ensures patients receive personalised care designed to restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
Dr Brumby-Rendell consults at multiple locations including Dulwich, Stirling Hospital, and Whyalla, with convenient options for patients across South Australia.
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Learn more about elbow-related injuries that can be treated with Elbow Arthroscopy with Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell.
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