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Elbow replacement

Posted , 4 users are following.

Flossyjojo
Flossyjojo

Hi all, have had 15 surgeries due to RA. Most recent was Jan 16, left ulnar head replacement. Have also had total wrist replacement same wrist. Now need elbow replaced too. I'm in New Zealand so could be different but what can I expect after surgery? Size of incision? Hospital stay? Right hand is killing me too from overuse while trying to heal. Probably need issues in that hand done soon too

0 likes, 5 replies

5 Replies

  • pknaturgrl
    pknaturgrl Flossyjojo

    Posted

    Hi,

     If you read our discussions, you will find that the post op treatment varies from Dr. to Dr. I will tell you mine. I had total elbow on 10-14-16, followed by having my arm in a splint straight for two weeks and then  I was given the ability to move it some for range of motion but no lifting till 3 months passed. This was to allow for bones, prosthetic and glue to grow together I am now in the strengthneing phase, but I will have a 2-5 pound weight lift limit for life.  I was in hospital for a few days, then I had to stay with someone for 2 weeks afterwards due to inability to do much for myself. I dealt with minimal pain & some swelling, which I controlled with ibuprophen and keeping my armr elevated on pillows above my heart, along with icing. The scar is about 6" long, with the elbwo being in the center. When the splint was removed I was able to go home and start caring for myself. Mostly I noticed I felt better right away because it was so much less pain than with the artritic joint before the surgery. I hope this is helpful, but you should also tell your doctor you need a road map for what to expect afterwards.

    P

    • Flossyjojo
      Flossyjojo pknaturgrl

      Posted

      Thanks so much for the info it's really appreciated. I still have a soft cast on now from my ulnar head replacement so will be giving my arm a good break before deciding on the elbow surgery. It's a lot to think about

    • cindy80039
      cindy80039 pknaturgrl

      Posted

      I am having surgery this July.  Left elbow.  I have to be able to work.  A bit nervous.  I teach 4th grade.  Hopefully I can begin school August 16th.  
    • Flossyjojo
      Flossyjojo cindy80039

      Posted

      Total replacement? Discuss with your doc. I have read it takes up to 3 months to go back to work
  • dorothy29363
    dorothy29363 Flossyjojo

    Posted

    I have crushed my elbow 11 years ago and had 13 surgeries.   My next step is an elbow replacement in December.  My hand currently dies not work real well.  I have ulnar nerve damage with numbness in the 4th and 5th digit along with severe pain in my elbow even to the touch.   My arm is also very weak.   The doctors say it is medically necessary to have an elbow replacement I am nervous.   Would you fo this?   Desperate for advice!!!!
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