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What Is Total Elbow Arthroplasty?

Total elbow arthroplasty is surgery to replace damaged parts of the elbow joint with artificial components. The replacement typically joins components in the upper arm bone and ulna with a hinge. Its goal is to reduce pain and improve arm function.

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What Is Total Elbow Arthroplasty?

Total elbow arthroplasty is surgery to replace damaged parts of the elbow joint with artificial components. The replacement typically joins components in the upper arm bone and ulna with a hinge. Its goal is to reduce pain and improve arm function.

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When Is Total Elbow Arthroplasty Considered?

A surgeon may recommend elbow replacement for severe joint damage from arthritis or a fracture that cannot be repaired adequately. Symptoms may include persistent pain, stiffness, and difficulty using the arm. The decision depends on the condition of the joint and the activities the person needs to perform.

How Is the Elbow Replaced?

The surgeon removes damaged joint surfaces from the upper arm bone and ulna. Metal stems are placed into the bones and connected through an artificial joint with a plastic bearing. Implant design and surgical details depend on the pattern of damage.

What Happens During Recovery?

The surgical team provides instructions for wound care and gentle movement as the incision heals. Rehabilitation helps restore elbow motion and the use of the hand and arm. Pushing, resistance, and lifting are restricted while the tissues recover.

What Are the Risks and Long-Term Limits?

Possible complications include infection, nerve injury, wound problems, and loosening or wear of the implant. Further surgery may be needed if a component fails. Surgeons generally advise a permanent limit on heavy lifting to reduce stress on the replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Total Elbow Arthroplasty

Is total elbow arthroplasty the same as elbow arthroscopy?

No. Arthroplasty replaces damaged joint surfaces with an implant, while arthroscopy uses a camera and small instruments to treat certain joint problems.

Can I lift heavy objects after elbow replacement?

Heavy lifting is generally restricted for the life of the implant. Ask your surgeon for the specific weight limit and activity instructions that apply to your replacement.

Does the operation replace every bone in the elbow?

No. A typical total elbow replacement places components in the upper arm bone and the ulna. The exact implant depends on the joint damage.

Can an elbow implant wear out?

Yes. Its parts can wear, loosen, or break over time. A revision operation may be needed if those changes cause problems.

References

Elbow replacement - discharge. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://www.medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000195.htm. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Elbow Replacement (Total Elbow Arthroplasty) Surgery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/elbow-replacement-surgery. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Elbow replacement surgery. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/elbow-replacement-surgery/about/pac-20385126. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Total Elbow Arthroplasty: Clinical Outcomes, Complications, and Revision Surgery. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6867907/. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.

Total Elbow Replacement. OrthoInfo (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons). https://www.orthoinfo.org/treatment/total-elbow-replacement. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.