The elbow is a hinge joint consisting of the humerus, ulna, and radius. The surface of the bones where they meet are covered with articular cartilage to enable them to move easily. When the cartilage wears thin and the bony surfaces come into contact during movement, an elbow replacement becomes necessary.
Prior to an elbow replacement surgery, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and arthritis medications are prescribed. If the pain is not relieved, the surgery will be recommended. The surgery generally takes 2 hours to perform. An incision is made on the back of the elbow and the damaged tissue is removed from the joint. A drill is used to make holes in the center of the arm bones and the artificial joint is glued in place to each bone and connected with a hinge. Medication is prescribed to control the pain. Physical therapy is usually recommended approximately 6 weeks after the surgery which is crucial to the recovery.
The need for elbow replacement can be caused by a number of different injury types. Post-traumatic arthritis, for example, can be caused by prior damage to the ligaments and bones. The damaged ligaments eventually damages the articular cartilage—resulting in arthritis. A severe elbow fracture can leave the joint either permanent unstable, or even totally unable to be rebuilt without replacement.
For many people, an elbow replacement became the natural conclusion of a long career of repetitive stress. Athletes and industrial workers alike suffer from the constant use of their arms for years without change—wearing out cartilage prematurely.
In any case, situations like this call for a look into the causes of your injury and whether they were caused by negligence or lack of proper care.
Our Florida broken bone lawyers are experienced in your specific injury and are familiar with the costs of future medical treatment (as well as the value of each individual case and injury). Our goal with each case is to ensure our client receives every penny they are entitled to, as well as holding the at-fault party fully accountable for their actions.
Call 800-874-2577 now to speak with an Orlando broken bone attorney at Trial Pro. We offer appointments in Orlando, Naples, Fort Myers, Miami, Daytona Beach, Delray Beach, and Jacksonville.