When you wake up and the first thing you feel is a sharp, grinding pain in your elbow, it changes how you look at your day. Simple tasks like lifting a kettle, turning a doorknob, or even hugging a loved one can become sources of dread. If you’ve reached the point where painkillers and physiotherapy are no longer doing the trick, you might be wondering: “Is it time for elbow arthritis surgery?”
I’m Dr. Vivek Mahajan, and I’ve spent over 22 years helping patients in Delhi regain their mobility. I understand that the idea of surgery is daunting. You’re worried about the pain, the cost, and whether you’ll ever use your arm normally again. Let’s sit down and talk through what you need to know about elbow arthritis and the modern ways we can fix it.
What exactly is Elbow Arthritis?
In a healthy elbow, the ends of your bones are coated with smooth cartilage that acts like a cushion. Arthritis happens when this cushion wears away. Without it, bone rubs against bone.
There are three main types I see in my practice:
- Osteoarthritis: The “wear and tear” type, often from years of use or manual work.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks the joint lining.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This happens if you’ve had a bad fracture or dislocation in the past. Even years later, that old injury can trigger arthritis.
When Is Elbow Arthritis Surgery Actually Needed?
I always tell my patients: surgery is rarely the first step. We start with rest, activity modification, and elbow arthritis treatment like physical therapy or injections. However, we need to consider surgical options when:
- The pain is constant: If you can’t sleep because your elbow throbbs, or if the pain persists even when you aren’t moving.
- Loss of function: You can’t brush your hair, feed yourself, or perform your job duties.
- Mechanical “locking”: You feel the joint catching or clicking because of loose bits of bone or cartilage.
- Conservative methods fail: You’ve tried everything for 6 months and nothing has changed.
Types of Surgery for Elbow Arthritis
1. Elbow Arthroscopy (Keyhole Surgery)
This is a minimally invasive technique where I make tiny incisions (about the size of a buttonhole) and use a camera to “clean out” the joint. We remove bone spurs and loose fragments. It’s excellent for early-to-mid stage arthritis and offers a much faster recovery.
2. Elbow Replacement Surgery
In severe cases, especially for patients over 60 or those with advanced rheumatoid arthritis, a total elbow replacement surgery is the best option. We replace the damaged joint with a high-grade metal and plastic hinge. This is a life-changing procedure for someone living with “bone-on-bone” pain.
What Is the Elbow Arthritis Surgery Cost in Delhi?
One of the first questions I get asked in my clinic is about the financial aspect. It’s a valid concern. In Delhi, the elbow arthritis surgery cost varies based on the procedure:
Procedure Type | Estimated Cost (INR) |
Elbow Arthroscopy | ₹80,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Total Elbow Replacement | ₹2,50,000 – ₹4,50,000 |
Note: These are estimates. The final cost depends on the type of implant used (imported vs. Indian), the hospital stay, and your specific medical needs.
The Road to Recovery: What to Expect
Recovery after elbow surgery is a marathon, not a sprint.
- Week 1-2: You’ll likely be in a sling or a splint. We focus on keeping the swelling down. You’ll start gentle finger and wrist wiggles.
- Week 2-6: We start formal physiotherapy. You’ll begin moving the elbow slowly to prevent stiffness.
- Month 3-6: Strength training begins. Most patients find they can return to most daily activities by this point.
The goal is to get you back to a point where you don’t even think about your elbow anymore.
Why Choose an Elbow Specialist in Delhi?
The elbow is one of the most complex joints in the body. It’s not just a hinge; it rotates and carries significant load. Choosing the best elbow arthritis surgeon in Delhi ensures you have someone who understands the delicate balance of nerves and ligaments surrounding the joint.
With over two decades of experience and specialized training from the UK and Italy, I focus on “Joint Preservation” whenever possible. This means we try to save your natural joint before jumping to a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is elbow replacement as successful as knee replacement?
While less common than knee replacements, modern elbow replacements are highly successful for pain relief. They allow patients to perform daily tasks like eating and dressing with ease, though we usually advise against heavy lifting (over 5kg) afterward to protect the implant. - How long does the surgery take?
An arthroscopy usually takes 45 to 90 minutes. A full replacement typically takes about 2 hours. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days depending on their recovery speed. - Can I drive after elbow surgery?
Usually, you can return to driving once you are out of the sling and have enough strength to control the steering wheel safely—typically around 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery. - Will my insurance cover the cost?
Most major insurance providers cover elbow arthritis surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. My team can help you with the documentation needed for a smooth claims process.
Conclusion
Living with chronic pain isn’t just physically exhausting; it takes a toll on your mental well-being too. If you’ve been struggling with stiffness and pain, elbow arthritis surgery could be the key to getting your life back.
As a dedicated elbow specialist in Delhi, my goal is to provide you with a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle. Whether it’s a simple “clean-up” via arthroscopy or a total joint replacement, you deserve to move without pain.
Ready to take the first step?
Book a consultation with Dr. Vivek Mahajan today. Let’s get you moving again.
