Can an elbow joint be replaceable? How long does it last?

With the advancement in biomechanics and technology conducting an elbow, joint replacement surgery has got a lot easier. It not only helps you in getting relieved of pain but also helps you in getting back to the ordinary lifestyle. 

If you are suffering from damage in your elbow joint, you can visit the orthopedic doctors in Chennai as they provide better medical treatment facilities.      

When do you need an elbow replacement?

The concept of elbow replacement was originated mainly to tackle the problem of rheumatoid arthritis. Later, elbow replacements were conducted to treat joints problems occurring either due to osteoarthritis or fractures in the elbow joints. 

In case of any of the above-mentioned factors, the doctors try to reduce the pain by medications or physiotherapy. The elbow joint replacement surgery is conducted only when the problem can’t be cured by the non-surgical measures. 

Here are some of the problems are given below in which case an elbow replacement surgery is required. An elbow replacement is conducted in the following cases:  

Rheumatoid Arthritis 

The concept of elbow replacement originated to tackle the problem of Rheumatoid arthritis. It occurs due to an autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints and tissues of the person. Usually, this type of arthritis affects multiple joints which include stiffness, pain, and swelling in the elbow.  

Osteoarthritis 

If you are suffering from osteoarthritis, which results from the deterioration in the cartilage can also cause the problem of elbow joints. The main symptoms, in this case, include stiffness, swelling, and pain in joints. This type of problem can develop in an elbow if a person is putting excess pressure on his elbows.   

Bone Fracture 

This is a very common problem that is mostly faced by older people due to the lower density in the bone. Besides, anyone who has fractured his/her bone badly also needs to undergo the surgery of elbow replacement.            

How long does an elbow replacement last?

The replacement of an elbow joint can never be good as the natural, normal functioning of the elbow. The artificial elbow joint will give you a lesser range of motion as compared to a healthy natural joint. 

These may limit your daily life activities to some extent, but going through the proper recovery process like having physiotherapy can help you in moving your arm faster. 

Indulging in different types of exercises can help you in improving your range of motion. These may also help the artificial elbow to last for a more extended period. 

But, try to avoid massive works and heavy lifting as it can damage the artificial elbow. Also, keep in mind that if you take proper care of your artificial elbow then in most likable cases, it will last for ten years.         

Risks involved in the process of elbow replacement

 Some of the risk that is involved in the elbow replacement surgery is given below: 

●      Injury to blood vessels and nerves

●      Broken bone

●      Infection

●      Allergic reaction due to the implantation of artificial joint

●      Wearing or Loosening of artificial parts.

●      Instability or stiffness in the joint   

Innovative approach towards the new implantation process

Modern science is implementing new technologies to improve the process of elbow joint replacement surgery. 

The focus is on making it more long-lasting and effective. Apart from that, the various alternative process was developed by the physiotherapists to provide relief to the patients suffering from elbow joint problems.

FORTIS MALAR HOSPITAL CHENNAI

ADDRESS: No. 52, 1st Main Rd, Gandhi Nagar, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600020

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