What is it?
Loose bodies in the elbow are free floating structures that can occasionally cause symptoms in the elbow. Typically, these loose bodies are small fragments of bone or cartilage that have broken off. These pieces can cause pain, locking, stiffness, and catching of the elbow.
WHAT ARE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A LOOSE BODY IN THE ELBOW?
Common symptoms of loose bodies in the elbow include:
• Pain and stiffness of the elbow
• Catching sensation in the elbow
• Difficulty extending the elbow
• Feeling of something moving around in the elbow
Diagnosis
In the office, a complete history and physical exam is obtained. Careful measurements of range of motion and strength of the elbow are recorded. Oftentimes, diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays and MRI, is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Most people can live with loose bodies in the elbow without difficulty. However, if symptoms continue to persist and interfere with elbow function, surgical treatment can help alleviate these issues.
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that allows the surgeon to view the elbow joint through small incisions. Once the loose body is identified, it can be removed by using arthroscopic instruments. This is typically done in an outpatient setting under regional anesthesia, allowing patients to return home the same day.
RECOVERY
Following surgery, patients are immobilized in a sling for comfort. Physical therapy begins within the first week of surgery, with emphasis on range of motion. Strengthening is then allowed at six weeks. Patients generally return to activities at about three months postoperatively.