About Elbow Arthrolysis
Key Highlights
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Restores lost range of motion and function in a stiff pediatric elbow.Minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques often reduce scarring and recovery time.Tailored specifically for children's growing bones and joints, protecting growth plates.Can significantly reduce chronic pain associated with elbow stiffness.Helps prevent long-term disability and allows return to sports and daily activities.Performed by specialists in pediatric orthopedics with expertise in child anatomy./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Post-traumatic elbow stiffness following a fracture (e.g., supracondylar humerus fracture).
- Post-surgical stiffness after a previous elbow procedure.
- Arthrofibrosis (excessive scar tissue formation) within the joint.
- Congenital or acquired elbow contractures limiting function.
- Stiffness due to conditions like juvenile idiopathic arthritis (when conservative management fails).
- Significant loss of elbow flexion or extension impacting daily life (e.g., eating, hygiene, schoolwork).
How to prepare
- Comprehensive evaluation including physical exam, X-rays, and possibly a CT or MRI scan.
- A trial of intensive physiotherapy and splinting may be required before surgery is considered.
- Pre-operative blood tests and a general health check-up to ensure fitness for anesthesia.
- Discussion with the pediatric anesthesiologist regarding anesthesia plan.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the surgery as instructed.
- Planning for post-operative support at home, including time off school.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Nerve or blood vessel injury, potentially causing numbness or weakness.
- Recurrence of stiffness or incomplete improvement in motion.
- Heterotopic ossification (abnormal bone growth in soft tissues).
- Risks associated with general anesthesia.
- Damage to the growth plate (physeal injury), though every precaution is taken to avoid this.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is typically short, often just 1-2 days for pain management and initial mobilization.
- The elbow may be placed in a splint or removable brace initially.
- Aggressive physiotherapy begins almost immediately, focusing on gentle, passive motion.
- Active exercises are gradually introduced as healing progresses.
- Pain is managed with medications prescribed by the doctor.
- Regular follow-up visits are crucial to monitor progress and adjust therapy.
- Full recovery and return to sports may take several months, depending on the case.
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Typical hospital stay: 1-2 days
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Expected recovery time: 6-12 weeks for initial functional recovery; up to 6 months for full strength and sport
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering elbow arthrolysis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform elbow arthrolysis. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for elbow arthrolysis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 120 Thousand – 300 Thousand | 1-2 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial functional recovery; up to 6 months for full strength and sport | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 420 Thousand – 1.05 Million | 1-2 days | ~ 6-12 weeks for initial functional recovery; up to 6 months for full strength and sport | Know More |
Sai Roy is a 13-year-old aspiring...
Sai Roy is a 13-year-old aspiring cricket bowler who fractured his elbow in a fall from his bicycle 8 months ago. Despite the bone healing well, he developed significant stiffness, unable to straighten his arm fully or bend it enough to bowl. His dream of making the school team felt shattered. His pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Mehta, recommended elbow arthrolysis, explaining it as a keyhole surgery to gently break up the internal scar tissue restricting his joint. Sai was nervous but hopeful. The minimally invasive procedure went smoothly. In recovery, he worked intensely with a physiotherapist, enduring painful but crucial stretches. Six months later, Sai has regained 95% of his elbow motion. He can bowl again and recently earned a spot as a reserve on the team. His journey was one of frustration and fear transforming into determination and immense relief, his confidence restored along with his swing.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Elbow Arthrolysis
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform elbow arthrolysis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata