Elbow Surgery Considerations
Elbow Treatments & Surgeries - Adelaide Orthopaedic Specialist
Wound Dressings
- Remove the bandage and wool on the third day after surgery. If the underlying surgical dressing is clean and dry, leave it alone. If minimal drainage is present, apply a clean waterproof dressing over the incision (Tegaderm dressing).
- To avoid infection, keep surgical incisions clean and dry - you may shower starting the day after surgery if you seal the surgical site with plastic around the bandage. After the third day you just need the waterproof dressing alone. Do not immerse the operative arm (i.e. in a bath) until the wound is dry and the suture trimmed (2 weeks).
Ice Therapy
- Ice packs help reduce pain and swelling. It should be applied every 2 hours for 20 minutes daily.
- Do not let ice come into direct contact with your skin. It should always be wrapped in a plastic bag over-wrapped with a towel.
Activities
- Elevate the operative arm to chest level whenever possible to decrease swelling
- When sleeping or resting, inclined positions (i.e. reclining chair) and a pillow under the forearm for support may provide better comfort
- Do not engage in activities which increase pain/swelling (lifting or any repetitive wrist/elbow/shoulder movements) over the first 7-10 days following surgery
- Driving and return to light work 1 week after surgery, if pain is tolerable
Pain control
- A local anaesthetic is injected into the wound and elbow joint during surgery - this will wear off within 12 hours
- Paracetamol and Anti-inflammatories (eg. Ibuprofen or Diclofenacl) should be taken regularly for the first few weeks after surgery (as long as required).
Sling
- Your sling should be worn for comfort for a few days after surgery
You may remove this as comfortable.
Exercises
- You will be seen by a physiotherapist at the hospital after your surgery
- Gentle shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand range of motion exercises can be performed starting on the first post-operative day
- Formal physiotherapy with your own therapist should commence about a week after surgery and consists of local care and a specific exercise program
Follow Up
- You will be sent an appointment to see us approximately 3 weeks after surgery. If you have any queries or concerns please contact us.
Patient information for elbow surgeries, injuries and conditions.
Elbow Treatments
Dr James McLean performs many different surgeries to treat elbow injuries and conditions. Browse the links below for more information on individual surgeries and how they are performed.
Depending on the type and severity of your elbow injury, surgery might be the best option. Dr James McLean specialises in minimally invasive arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery. His aim is to get you the best possible outcome, taking into account your lifestyle, general health and family situation. Before surgery, Dr McLean will guide you through the process and address any concerns you have.
If you have a sports injury or other elbow condition, act now and make an appointment. Delaying treatment can cause permanent damage and reduce the potential for a full recovery.
Call our friendly team on 08 7077 0101 to make an appointment or use our handy online booking service. Consultations are available in Dulwich (SA), Bedford Park (SA) and Elizabeth Vale (SA).
Common Elbow Injuries
Browse the links below for more information on common elbow injuries, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Elbow Conditions
Browse the links below for more information on specific elbow conditions, including the main causes, symptoms and treatments.
Patient information
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How Dr James McLean can help
Dr James McLean provides consultation and various treatments for a wide variety of elbow conditions in Adelaide.
With his extensive experience in treating upper limb conditions, he works with his patients to create tailored treatment plans which yield the best possible outcomes for their injuries.
Click here for more information on other conditions involving the shoulder, hand, wrist, and elbow which Dr James McLean has a special interest in treating.