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Elbow Ligament Reconstruction in Houston, TX
Elbow Anatomy
The elbow is a complex joint of the upper limb formed by the articulation of the long bone of the upper arm or humerus and the two bones of the forearm, namely, radius and ulna. It is one of the important joints of the upper limb and is involved in basic movements such as flexion and extension of the upper limb and rotation of the forearm.
The elbow joint is supported by the ulnar collateral ligament, radial collateral ligament, and the annular ligament. These ligaments provide stability and strength to the elbow joint.
The elbow joint also has the attachment of the common flexor and common extensor tendons. The groups of muscles, associated with the respective tendons, assist in rotational movement of the forearm as well as the movements of the wrist and hand.
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Elbow Injuries
The common conditions affecting the tendons around the elbow joint include tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, which result from an overuse injury to the tendons or result from repetitive activities such as sports, mechanical activities or weight lifting.
The ligaments around the elbow may be injured secondary to a sprain, rupture, trauma or an accident. The sprain or trauma may result from repetitive stress, overuse or a direct injury.
Symptoms of Elbow Injuries
The common symptoms of injury to the elbow joint and its surrounding structures include swelling and pain, which may extend from the elbow to the forearm and palm and be aggravated by movements of the wrist. Sometimes, instability of the joint may also be seen.
Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Procedure
Ligament reconstruction is considered in patients with ligament rupture. Your surgeon will make an incision over the elbow. Care is taken to move muscles, tendons, and nerves out of the way. The donor’s tendon is harvested from either the forearm or below the knee. Your surgeon drills holes into the bones of the upper arm and forearm, around the elbow joint. The donor’s tendon is inserted through the drilled holes in a pattern like that of the original ligament complex. The tendon is then attached to the bone surfaces with special sutures. The incision is closed with sutures and covered with a sterile dressing. A splint is applied to support the elbow for a few weeks. After the surgery, you may be advised for regular follow-up and a rehabilitation program for a quicker recovery.
Risk and Complications of Elbow Ligament Reconstruction
As with all surgeries, elbow ligament reconstruction surgery may be associated with certain risks and complications. The common complications of the elbow ligament and tendon repair surgeries may include infection, injury to the adjacent nerve and blood vessels, and a loss of strength or flexibility of the elbow joint.
Rehabilitation after Elbow Ligament Reconstruction
The success of the surgery depends on the postoperative rehabilitation program, which includes the use of a removable splint immediately after surgery as well as ice therapy, electrical stimulation and massage for reducing pain, swelling or muscle spasm. Isometric exercises, strengthening, and range of motion exercises may be useful for long-term rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is elbow ligament reconstruction?
Elbow ligament reconstruction is a surgical procedure considered for patients with a ruptured elbow ligament. The elbow is supported by the ulnar collateral, radial collateral, and annular ligaments, which provide stability and strength to the joint.
How do elbow ligaments get injured?
Elbow ligaments may be injured by a sprain, rupture, trauma, or accident. These injuries often result from repetitive stress, overuse, or a direct blow to the joint.
What are the symptoms that might lead to reconstruction?
Common symptoms include swelling and pain that can extend from the elbow to the forearm and palm and worsen with wrist movement. Joint instability may also be present when a ligament is significantly damaged.
How is elbow ligament reconstruction performed?
Dr. Luo makes an incision over the elbow and carefully moves muscles, tendons, and nerves aside. A donor tendon is harvested from the forearm or below the knee, threaded through holes drilled in the upper arm and forearm bones in a pattern matching the original ligament, and secured to the bone with special sutures before a splint is applied.
What does recovery involve after elbow ligament reconstruction?
A removable splint supports the elbow immediately after surgery, along with ice therapy, electrical stimulation, and massage to reduce pain, swelling, and muscle spasm. Isometric, strengthening, and range-of-motion exercises support long-term rehabilitation, which is key to a successful outcome. Possible risks include infection, nerve or blood vessel injury, and loss of strength or flexibility.
Randy Y. Luo, MD, MBA
Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Hand & Upper Extremity Specialist