An elbow fracture can cause significant pain and restrict the movement of the arm. It can happen as a result of a fall, an injury during sport, a road traffic accident, or a direct blow to the elbow that needs to be addressed in a timely manner, as any injury to the elbow might lead to long-term stiffness and limited movement, and damage to the nerves or deformity if left unattended. With all the advancements in orthopaedic fracture treatment and experienced practitioners like Dr. Himanshu Tyagi, patients can be assured of optimal recovery.
Dr. Himanshu Tyagi is a reputable Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon with extensive experience in treating acute and complex fractures and joint injuries. At his clinic in Sector 93B, Noida, he offers world-class treatment to patients, but he also sees patients for surgery and consultations at Fortis Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in the area.
Diagnosing an Elbow Fracture
The first step in treatment is a proper diagnosis. At Dr. Himanshu Tyagi’s practice in Sector 93B, and at Fortis Hospital, diagnosis typically includes the following steps:
- A physical examination of the area to look for swelling, tenderness, and joint stability
- An X-ray to assess the fracture type and severity
- A CT scan or MRI is required if there is multiligamentous (injury in two or more ligaments) involvement or concern for a ligament injury or complex fractures around the joint.
With these steps, Dr. Tyagi can help see if the fracture can be treated conservatively or requires surgery.
Management and Treatment of Elbow Fractures
Management of an elbow fracture really depends on the type and severity of the fracture, joint involvement, and the patient’s age and activity level. Generally, treatment can be divided into two main categories: non-surgical (conservative) options and surgical options.
1. Non-Surgical (Conservative Management)
Many minor or non-displaced fractures will heal without surgical intervention. The non-surgical options available include:
a) Immobilization
Casting, splinting, or bracing of the elbow joint is used to hold the elbow stable while the bones heal. Generally, the duration of immobilization will be 3-6 weeks based on the fracture.
b) Pain Management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories are effective in reducing pain as well as swelling.
c) Physiotherapy
When the length of immobilization is completed, physiotherapy is then important in regaining motion, strength, and flexibility. Early physiotherapy, initiated under medical supervision, helps to prevent stiffness and problems at the elbow joint in the long term.
Conservative management is reasonable and effective in treating stable fractures.
2. Surgical Treatment (Surgery for Elbow Fracture)
Should the fracture be displaced, unstable, involve the joint surface and fracture the skin, or have a nerve injury, orthopedic fracture surgical treatment is needed.
Dr. Himanshu Tyagi carries out the most complex, modern procedures safely and effectively at the Fortis Hospital and Sector 93B clinic.
a) Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
An ORIF is performed by plating, screws, or wires into the proper position that will stabilize the fractured bone for healing, followed by the restoration of the elbow to its functioning position.
b) External Fixation
External fixation is used in complicated traumas where external rods stabilize the fracture from outside the body.
c) Elbow Replacement (In Severe Cases)
Patients who are older in age or there are cases of shattered bone, resulting in the loss of the elbow bone, an elbow replacement is allowed and considered.
Surgical treatment is long-term stabilized, maximizing the chance of returning motion to the elbow joint, especially when the joint surface is involved.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
The recovery from an elbow fracture may take 6 weeks, and up to several months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the type of treatment applied. Recovery goals will include:
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises,
- Strengthening the forearm and upper arm muscles,
- Avoid heavy weights until cleared by a doctor,
- Regular follow-ups to assess healing status, and
- Check progression and maximize healing.
At both his Sector 93B clinic and Fortis Hospital, Dr. Himanshu Tyagi ensures that patients receive a personalized rehabilitation plan to restore their elbow function to normal limits.
Why Dr. Himanshu Tyagi for treatment of an Elbow Fracture?
- Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with an interest in fractures, trauma, and joint injuries
- Non-operative and operative treatment options
- Normal appointments available at his Sector 93B, Noida clinic
- Operates and sees patients at Fortis Hospital, with all the benefits of a hospital setting
- Whenever possible, he uses minimally invasive methods to treat patients
- Hands-on physiotherapy rehabilitation treatment and guidance
Dr. Tyagi’s skill ensures that patients will not only heal from their elbow fracture but also return to complete elbow mobility and a healthy elbow joint for the long term.
Conclusion
Timely and appropriate management of an elbow fracture is key to optimal healing and restoration of elbow motion. Whether the injury is treated through a conservative treatment option or an orthopaedic fracture procedure, the benefit of expert management is a significant advantage. With the use of advanced diagnostic imaging, a tailored treatment plan for each patient, and expert surgical skills, Dr. Himanshu Tyagi is an effective option for the treatment of elbow fractures at his Sector 93B Noida and Fortis Hospital practice.
If you or someone close to you has experienced injury to their elbow, it is crucial that you seek medical attention as soon as possible, as early evaluation can help avoid persistent stiffness or complications. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Tyagi for a proper diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan that fits your needs.