Elbow replacement

The elbow is a hinge joint made up of three bones, which are connected by muscles, ligaments and tendons. These bones are:

• the humerus, which is the upper arm bone
• the ulna, which is the inner forearm bone
• the radius, which is the outer forearm bone

What is an elbow replacement?

A total elbow replacement is made up of metal and plastic parts and replaces the joint between the humerus (upper arm bone) and ulna (inner forearm bone). There are two metal stems that fit into the bone cavity of the upper and lower arm and these are usually fixed into place by using bone cement. The two metal stems are either linked (like a hinge) or unlinked, depending on the type of replacement.

Ask your specialist about what elbow replacement they recommend and what the advantages and disadvantages of it are.