Elbow Replacement

Elbow replacement surgery involves removing damaged areas of the elbow joint and replacing them with metal or plastic implants. Damage to the elbow joint can occur due to disease or injury. Elbow replacement surgery is performed to relieve pain and restore motion to your elbow.

At Kimball Health Services, our expert team of Dr. Jeffery MacMillan and Karen Wenner, APRN, DNP, provides state-of-the-art elbow replacement surgery. We focus on alleviating your elbow condition to help improve mobility and quality of life.

Understanding Elbow Replacement

The elbow joint comprises three bones: the upper arm bone, called the humerus, and the two forearm bones, called the radius and the ulna. The humerus connects like a loose hinge to the ulna while the two forearm bones work together to allow the forearm to rotate.

These bones are surrounded by cartilage, a flexible connective tissue that protects your bones by providing a smooth surface on which the bones can glide against one another without friction.

Any damage to the bones or cartilage in the elbow joint can cause chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness, necessitating an elbow replacement.

Elbow replacement can be done on just one portion of the joint in cases where only the head of one of your forearm bones, the radius, is damaged. Whole elbow replacement involves reshaping the ends of the bones that come together in the elbow.

Reasons for Elbow Replacement

Dr. MacMillan recommends elbow replacement surgery when you are experiencing severe elbow pain and loss of function due to underlying conditions or injuries. Elbow replacement is the best approach when medications or physical therapy do not adequately ease your pain.

Conditions that may make elbow replacement surgery necessary include:

Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the elbow joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Bone tumors: Tumors affecting the bones or soft tissues around the elbow joint may require elbow replacement.
Fractures: It can occur due to accidents, such as a fall or a direct blow to the elbow.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and damage to the elbow joint.

Preparing for Elbow Replacement

Before scheduling an elbow replacement, Dr. MacMillan will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, review your medical history, and ask for imaging tests like X-rays and CT scans.

This is a good opportunity to ask your questions about the procedure, including the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes for your case. At this point, our team will guide you on which medications to avoid, fasting before surgery, and home preparation for your recovery.

Consider the following tips for quick and safe recovery.

Set up a recovery space where you can spend most of your time post-surgery.
Ask your family or friends to assist you during your recovery period.
Arrange a ride for your visits for surgery and follow-up appointments.
Talk to our team about the medications you should avoid or continue.

What to Expect During Elbow Replacement

Elbow replacement typically takes about two hours. Depending on your condition, the duration of your hospital stay may vary, but you may usually go home on the same day.

Before the Procedure

Our team administers anesthesia to ensure you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. The type of anesthesia (general or local) will be determined based on your case.

During the Procedure

During the surgery, Dr. MacMillan makes an incision over the elbow joint to access the damaged joint surfaces. He then removes the damaged parts of the joint and replaces them with implants of metal and plastic. He utilizes MicroPort Orthopedic products in his joint replacement surgeries.

The long, slender ends of the implants are inserted into the softer central part of the bones. Dr. MacMillan may use a linking cap if the surrounding ligaments are not strong enough to hold the joint together.

After implant placement, the incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied to the surgical site.

After the Procedure

After surgery, you are taken to the recovery area, where you are monitored for a few hours. You may need to wear a splint or a sling for a few days or weeks after surgery. Dr. MacMillan may recommend pain medications to relieve any postoperative discomfort.

Recovery & Physical Therapy

Recovery from elbow replacement usually takes about three months. Dr. MacMillan may advise you to avoid activities that can strain your elbow, such as heavy lifting and contact sports.

You may also receive physical therapy to help improve the mobility and function of your arm. It may include a range of motion exercises, such as bending and straightening your arm.

Elbow Replacement at Kimball Health Services

At Kimball Health Services, we perform elbow replacement surgery with a patient-focused approach. Our team ensures you receive dedicated support from preoperative preparation through postoperative recovery and follow-up care.

As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or fill out our online form. We're here for you whenever you need us.