When fixing a joint or tendon, there are a few different approaches that can be taken. These approaches are subject to how big the injury is, and where it is located.
The elbow is a very mobile part of the body that connects the form arm bones to the upper arm bone. The elbow joint provides movement to the arms and helps us reach, extend and rotate. Some people even experience a phenomenon called hyperextension. If someone’s elbow hyper extends it means that their elbow has the ability to bend their arm back more than the average person. Elbow joints can be subject to inflammation, injury and other joint diseases. When this happens the patient can experience severe discomfort and will require a more involved treatment.
The words ‘what is an elbow arthroscopy’ get muttered around waiting rooms more frequently than one would imagine. To put it simply, it is a procedure that intentionally uses small incisions and thin instruments. To start, two to three incisions are made near the elbow. One incision is for the insertion of a camera device called an ‘arthroscope’. This camera-lens magnifies images of the elbow to be displayed on a TV screen. Tools will be inserted into the other opening and will be used to treat the injury or ailment. To expand the joint, a sterile solution is infused into the elbow to allow for extra room to work. Once the process is complete, stitches are used to close the area. Dressing is then applied to keep the place safe from future issues. The patient is to do their best to keep the dressing dry and they will receive instruction on how to change everything and look after the elbow during the healing procedure.
This is also seen in rotator cuff repair and knee procedures. Sometimes it can be preferable for everyone as it is less involved so time to heal is a lot quicker. It’s always advised to consider all your option before making any decisions regarding elbow injuries.