AANA Fellowship Education - Elbow Arthroscopy: What Every Sports Physician Should Know-Presentation (PDF)

Presentation (PDF)

Pdf Summary

The "Elbow Arthroscopy: What Every Sports Physician Should Know" webinar (January 19, 2021) offers comprehensive insights into elbow arthroscopy, focusing on setup, pathology, surgical techniques, and outcomes relevant to sports medicine. Key faculty included Drs. Julie Dodds, Michael O’Brien, Larry Field, and Joshua Szabo.<br /><br />Dr. Larry Field reviewed essential arthroscopic basics: proper operating room setup with patient positioning (prone or lateral preferred), instrumentation (standard 4.0 mm scope, power debriders), and portal placement strategies. He emphasized knowledge of elbow neuroanatomy, joint insufflation, and systematic diagnostic arthroscopy for safe, effective evaluation and treatment of pathologies including arthritis and loose bodies.<br /><br />Dr. Michael O’Brien detailed arthroscopic repair of lateral elbow instability, particularly addressing traumatic lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injuries often seen with dislocations or sports trauma. Early surgical repair is indicated for radial head subluxation, recurrent dislocations, and gross instability. Results from acute and subacute arthroscopic LCL repairs showed excellent function, range of motion, and no recurrent instability, with faster return to activities and fewer complications compared to prolonged bracing.<br /><br />O’Brien also presented arthroscopic release for elbow arthritis, highlighting its advantages for targeting osteophytes and synovitis with less morbidity than open procedures. Arthroscopic osteocapsular arthroplasty, including resection of coronoid and olecranon spurs and capsular release, improved pain and motion with a low complication rate. Emphasis was placed on ulnar nerve protection and postoperative rehabilitation focusing on early motion.<br /><br />Dr. Joshua Szabo discussed arthroscopic treatment of lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). Tendinosis without inflammation is typical; conservative therapy is first-line. Surgical intervention is considered after 6-12 months of failed nonoperative care. Arthroscopic release allows joint evaluation and targeted debridement, with outcomes comparable or superior to open surgery in terms of pain relief, function, and recovery time. Risk factors for poorer outcomes include multiple prior corticosteroid injections and significant tendon defects.<br /><br />The webinar covered case presentations illustrating diagnosis and treatment strategies for common elbow conditions including lateral epicondylitis, instability, OCD lesions, and posterior impingement, stressing individualized assessment, imaging, and surgical planning. Overall, elbow arthroscopy is depicted as a precise, minimally invasive tool enabling safe, effective management of complex elbow pathologies in athletes, facilitating faster rehabilitation and return to sport.

Keywords

Elbow Arthroscopy

Sports Medicine

Lateral Collateral Ligament Repair

Arthroscopic Osteocapsular Arthroplasty

Lateral Epicondylitis Treatment

Elbow Instability

Arthroscopic Surgical Techniques

Elbow Neuroanatomy

Postoperative Rehabilitation

Minimally Invasive Elbow Surgery