Learn about Arthrodesis Elbow Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Arthrodesis Elbow and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Arthrodesis Elbow

Arthrodesis of the elbow, performed by pediatric orthopedic specialists, is a surgical procedure that permanently fuses the bones of the elbow joint. This procedure is typically considered for children and adolescents when severe pain, instability, or deformity from conditions like arthritis, trauma, or neuromuscular disorders cannot be managed with other treatments. The goal is to create a stable, pain-free, and functional arm position, often in a slightly bent posture to facilitate daily activities. While it eliminates motion at the elbow, it provides significant relief and improved function for select pediatric patients, allowing them to use their hand and shoulder more effectively. The surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and securing the bones together with plates, screws, or rods until they heal into a single, solid unit.

Key Highlights

    Provides a permanent solution for severe elbow pain and instability.Creates a stable, functional arm position for daily activities.Eliminates the source of pain from a degenerated or damaged joint.Can correct significant deformity and improve limb alignment.Offers a definitive treatment option when joint-preserving surgeries are not viable.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Severe, debilitating osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis unresponsive to conservative care.
  • Chronic elbow instability or recurrent dislocations.
  • Failed previous elbow surgeries, such as total elbow arthroplasty.
  • Neuromuscular conditions (e.g., cerebral palsy, brachial plexus palsy) causing a flail or uncontrollable elbow.
  • Septic arthritis or tuberculosis that has destroyed the joint.
  • Significant joint destruction from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
  • Nonunion or malunion of a complex elbow fracture.
  • Tumor resection requiring removal of the joint.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation including medical history, physical exam, and imaging (X-rays, CT scan).
  • Discussion of goals, expectations, and the permanent loss of elbow motion.
  • Pre-operative blood tests and medical clearance, especially for underlying conditions.
  • Possible consultation with a physical or occupational therapist to plan for post-surgery adaptation.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgeon.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours before the scheduled surgery time.
  • Arranging for help at home during the initial recovery period.

Risks & possible complications

  • Infection at the surgical site.
  • Bleeding or hematoma formation.
  • Nerve or blood vessel injury, potentially affecting hand function or sensation.
  • Nonunion (failure of the bones to fuse), requiring additional surgery.
  • Malunion (bones fusing in an incorrect position).
  • Hardware irritation, pain, or failure, possibly requiring removal.
  • Persistent pain or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
  • Stiffness in the shoulder, wrist, or hand.
  • Overuse or strain injuries in adjacent joints over time.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay of 1-3 days for pain management and initial monitoring.
  • Arm placed in a long arm cast or splint for 6-12 weeks to protect the fusion.
  • Strict elevation of the arm to control swelling.
  • Pain medication and antibiotics as prescribed.
  • No weight-bearing or stress on the fused elbow until the surgeon confirms healing on X-rays.
  • Gradual transition to a removable brace once initial healing is stable.
  • Early focus on gentle motion of the shoulder, wrist, and fingers to prevent stiffness.
  • Occupational therapy to adapt to the fused elbow and learn new techniques for daily tasks.
  • Follow-up X-rays at regular intervals to monitor bone fusion.
  • Full recovery and return to most activities (excluding those requiring elbow bending) may take 4-6 months.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 2-3 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 4-6 months for full bone healing and adaptation

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering arthrodesis elbow in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for arthrodesis elbow compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 1,632 – USD 3,807 2-3 days ~ 4-6 months for full bone healing and adaptation Know More
Turkey USD 12,079 – USD 28,184 2-3 days ~ 4-6 months for full bone healing and adaptation Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...

Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!

Pediatric Orthopedics for Arthrodesis Elbow

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform arthrodesis elbow and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 15 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 24 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

OPD-desk synced • Updated