METHODOLOGY IN ELBOW ARTHROSCOPY

Abstract

At first arthroscopy was devised as a diagnostic tool, which then evolved in a therapeutically one with significant capabilities for the treatment of a wide specter of joint pathologies. The technique was first documented in 1912 when a Bruman (1932) explores the capabilities of arthroscope inserted into the elbow joint of human cadavers. In the last 30 years the indications for performing elbow arthroscopy show significant development worldwide. The purpose of the initially described elbow arthroscopies was as a diagnostic tool, removal of loose bodies in the joint, synovectomy and adhesiolysis. The arthroscopy’s capacity for elbow joint pathology treatment have grown greatly with the accumulation of anatomical knowledge and experience in arthroscopic surgery. In recent years, excellent results are being reported for the arthroscopic treatment of lateral epicondylitis, osteochondritis dissecans, osteoarthritis and contractures. Nonetheless, to perform an elbow arthroscopy requires high level of technical skillset. Accurate anatomical knowledge and sizeable arthroscopic experience is required. When taken into account the physiological peculiarity of the elbow region there is a risk of complications with relation to neuro-vascular injuries. Premise for achieving good to excellent results with minimal percentage of complications are selecting a suitable patient, preoperative preparation, practiced team and adequate equipment. This article’s purpose is to present contemporary methodology for the performance of arthroscopic surgery of the elbow joint.

Keywords

• arthroscopy
• elbow joint
• methodology