About
Overview
Total elbow replacement (TEA)
Total elbow replacement (TEA) is a surgical procedure performed to relieve pain and restore function in severely damaged elbows. Here is a note covering your requested headings.
Results of the Surgery
Total elbow replacement generally leads to significant pain reduction and improved range of motion and strength in most patients. Long-term studies show satisfactory clinical outcomes, with many patients reporting no pain and improved function up to 10 years after surgery. However, complications such as implant loosening, infection, dislocation, and nerve injury can occur, with overall complication and revision rates around 16% and 14%, respectively.
What Happens During Total Elbow Replacement
During TEA, the damaged joint surfaces of the humerus and ulna are removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant. The surgery aims to restore elbow stability and function by replacing the joint with metal and plastic components.
How to Prepare for the Surgery as a Patient
Patients should undergo a thorough clinical evaluation, including imaging (X-rays, CT scans) and routine blood tests. Medical clearance is necessary, and certain medications may need to be stopped before surgery. Fasting and pre-surgery instructions are provided, and physiotherapy advice is often recommended for post-operative recovery.
What All Tests Are Required for the Same
The required tests for TEA include:
- Routine blood tests (CBC, ESR, RBS, RFT, PT-INR, Viral Serology)
- Electrocardiogram (ECG/ECHO) to check heart health.
- Chest X-ray to screen for lung issues.
- Advanced imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to assess knee anatomy and plan implant placement.
- Urinalysis to check for infections or other diseases.
- Dental consultation to rule out foci of infection.
- Basic fitness check for anesthesia.
These tests ensure the patient is healthy enough for surgery and enable precise planning.
Procedure Details
What Happens During the Procedure
The procedure steps for total elbow replacement are:
- Preparation and positioning of the patient.
- A posterior incision is made to access the elbow joint.
- The muscles and tendons are retracted, and the ulnar nerve is protected or transposed.
- Damaged joint surfaces are removed, and the humerus and ulna bones are prepared for the prosthetic components.
- The prosthesis is placed, ensuring proper alignment and stability.
- The wound is closed in layers, and a drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup.
What Is the Usual Recovery Time ?
The typical recovery time for total elbow replacement is about 6 to 8 weeks for most patients to resume light activities, with full recovery and return to normal activities taking 3 to 6 months. Physical therapy is started soon after surgery to help regain strength and mobility.
Doctors & Departments
Departments and Specialties
Astenortho has one of the largest and most experienced practices. Staff skilled in dozens of specialties work together to ensure quality care and successful recovery.
Departments with Related Expertise
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Care at Astenortho
Astenortho's Approach
Cutting-Edge Technology
AstenOrtho is Kerala’s Most Tech-Advanced Orthopaedic Hospital, with advanced robotics and some of the finest health-tech, which has proven time and again to give excellent patient outcomes. Our seasoned specialists combine their experience and AstenOrtho’s technological edge to keep evolving the AS.10 Robotic Precision Protocols; to keep pushing the bar of the care delivery models.
Collaboration
We host some of the best surgeons, specialists, therapists, and healthcare workers who work as one strong team to ensure best possible treatment outcomes, and ‘Zero Compromise Care’ for our patients at AstenOrtho.
Compassion
We understand the human urge of keep doing and wanting to do the things they love. At AstenOrtho, ‘Do What You Love’ is the core philosophy that drives us to ensure that we give our best shot in achieving the ‘Desired Mobility’, our patients need.
Experience and Patient Stories
Our Centres & Departments
Center for Spine Surgery
Anaesthesiology
Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation
Centre for Bone & Joints
Centre For Paediatric Ortho
Center for Emergency Department
Centre for Reconstructive Surgery
Advanced Dental Centre
Centre for Ortho Wellness
General Medicine & Diabetology
Centre for Sports Medicine
Costs and Insurance
AstenOrtho is empanelled with leading insurance providers both within and outside India. For more details on a specific insurance provider or to understand the insurance process, you can write to us: hello@astenortho.com
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