Elbow Surgery
Removal of Loose Bodies

Indications for operation
Loose bodies in the elbow

Anaesthetic
General Anaesthetic (Fully asleep)
Local anaesthetic and Morphine will be injected into the joint for post-operative pain relief

Operation type
Arthroscopic

Incisions
2-4 ½ cm incisions will be made in the elbow, one to either side of the elbow and 1-2 at the back.

Procedure
The elbow joint will be fully inspected and the loose bodies located. These will be removed using specially designed grasping instruments.

Wound Closure
Small butterfly paper stitches will be used to close the wounds.

Dressings
Elastoplast dressings will be placed over the top of the paper stitches and an elastic support bandage over the top of this.

Immediate aftercare
You will wake up with the bandage on the elbow and the arm elevated on pillows. You can go home when you feel comfortable and will be given instructions on what to do next.
Further instructions for Loose Body Removal Rehabilitation