Elbow Arthroscopy (Debridement)
Who is a candidate?
Elbow arthroscopy is often recommended for younger or active patients with painful stiffness, catching, or loss of motion in the elbow. This stiffness may come from arthritis, prior injuries, or loose bodies (small fragments of bone or cartilage) within the joint. Patients who want to improve pain and motion but do not want the permanent weight-bearing restrictions of an elbow replacement may be good candidates for this procedure.
What does the surgery involve?
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed through several small incisions around the elbow. A camera and fine instruments are used to:
Remove scar tissue, inflamed lining, or bone spurs that block motion
Smooth rough cartilage surfaces (debridement)
Remove loose bodies that cause catching or locking
The goal is to restore smoother motion and reduce pain, while preserving the patient’s natural joint.
How is this different from total elbow arthroplasty?
A total elbow replacement is usually reserved for patients with severe arthritis or complex fractures and comes with lifelong restrictions on lifting and heavy use to protect the implant. Elbow arthroscopy, on the other hand, aims to preserve the natural elbow joint and can allow patients to maintain a more active lifestyle without strict weight restrictions. While it may not provide the same level of pain relief as a full replacement in advanced arthritis, it can significantly improve range of motion and function in patients who want to stay active.
What are the potential downsides or risks?
As with any surgery, there are risks of infection, nerve injury, or stiffness. In some patients, arthritis may continue to progress even after arthroscopy, which could lead to the need for future surgery. Pain relief may be incomplete if the joint surfaces are severely worn.
What is recovery like?
Recovery is usually quicker than with open elbow surgery. Patients often begin gentle motion exercises soon after surgery to prevent stiffness, with therapy focusing on gradually restoring flexibility and strength. Many patients are able to return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, with continued improvements in motion and function over several months. Unlike with an elbow replacement, patients generally do not face permanent lifting restrictions, making this procedure particularly appealing to younger, active individuals.