Elbow Arthroscopy, Debridement and Contracture Release
Overview
Elbow arthroscopy is a keyhole procedure used to assess and treat selected causes of elbow pain, stiffness, catching or locking. It may be used for loose bodies, bone spurs, inflamed tissue, cartilage problems or impingement.
Contracture release is used when elbow stiffness remains a major functional limitation despite non-operative treatment.
Who may benefit from elbow arthroscopy?
Patients may benefit if they have mechanical symptoms, loose bodies, painful impingement, early arthritis symptoms or stiffness affecting function. Suitability depends on the cause of symptoms, nerve position, arthritis severity and motion loss.
What does the procedure involve?
Small incisions are used to insert a camera and instruments into the elbow. Loose bodies and inflamed tissue can be removed, bone spurs reshaped and tight capsule released where appropriate. In more severe stiffness, open release may be required.
Recovery after elbow arthroscopy
Recovery focuses on early movement, swelling control and maintaining motion. When contracture release is performed, physiotherapy is particularly important to preserve the range gained at surgery.
Rehabilitation protocol
You will receive an elbow arthroscopy, debridement or contracture release protocol matched to the procedure.
FAQs
What symptoms can elbow arthroscopy treat?
Catching, locking, impingement pain, loose bodies and selected stiffness problems.
Is elbow arthroscopy always possible?
No. Some problems require open surgery depending on severity and anatomy.
Will stiffness return after release?
It can. Early rehabilitation helps maintain motion.
When can I return to work?
Desk work may resume earlier than heavy manual duties, depending on pain and motion.
What are the risks?
Risks include nerve irritation, stiffness, infection, swelling and persistent symptoms.
Book or Refer Today
For elbow stiffness, catching or locking, book a consultation to review whether arthroscopy or release is suitable.
Reconstructive Orthopaedics Melbourne (ROM)
We restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life — through reconstructive orthopaedic surgery driven by evidence and advanced biomechanics.