Elbow Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is the practice of looking inside a joint with a small camera. It allows a through assessment of the bearing surface of the joint (articular cartilage), the lining of the joint (capsule) as well as the surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons.

A number of problems around the elbow can be addressed through keyhole surgery. Arthritic changes to the joint surface can be assessed in detail and damaged areas of cartilage can be removed. It is also possible to remove small areas of abnormal bone (osteophytes) which can restrict movement of the joint. In cases where arthritic change has affected the radial head, which may give rise to pain on gripping and rotational movements of the forearm, this can be removed.

Arthroscopy can also be utilized to release internal scarring within the joint in cases of elbow stiffness, either following a fracture or as part of the symptoms of arthritis.