Arthroscopic treatment for osteoarthritis of the elbow.

Arthroscopy has taken on a valuable role in the management of osteoarthritis of the elbow. Most patients have loose bodies, of which some are not detected on radiographs are all effectively removed arthroscopically. Excision of osteophytes from the olecranon and the coronoid as well as from the olecranon and coronoid fossae (to re-create the original fossae) eliminate the painful impingement at the extremes of motion that is typical of this condition. Release of contracted capsular tissues can also be performed at the same time by stripping the capsule from the humeral attachments. As with all arthroscopic procedures, one must be highly respectful of the possible complication of nerve injury, and experience with this technique combined with a thorough knowledge of the anatomy and the underlying pathology are essential for its safe use.