National Training Plan in Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. SECHC
Elbow arthroscopy has developed over the past two decades once indications have been expanded and skill has been acquired by elbow surgeons. Being able to perform the learning curve of this joint, which is limited by a much lower number of indications that the knee and shoulder. The potential complications that have been described in this technique, especially in the first publications carried out, have limited its use to surgeons with previous experience in arthroscopy, mainly of the shoulder, who have added this new joint to their activity.
It is considered that the learning curve should be performed under the supervision of an expert surgeon to prevent potential complications, being necessary to perform at least 15-20 procedures per year to maintain dexterity.
The limitation of indications and cases mean that few centers can meet these requirements and it is advisable to leave this technique to expert surgeons.
Contraindications to the technique are few, but previous anatomic deformity that prevents access and orientation, joint ankyloses, nerve transpositions, or extra-articular infection are the main ones.
Recommendations for starting to learn elbow arthroscopy:
It is recommended to start with the simplest surgical indications such as removal of free bodies, partial synovectomies in rheumatic patients, chondral debridement due to osteochondritis dissecans or lesions of the radial head, and epicondylitis treatment. The most complex indications such as post-traumatic joint fibrosis, osteosynthesis of radial head fractures or the treatment of instabilities, better once the technique has been mastered.
It is considered that the learning curve should be performed under the supervision of an expert surgeon to prevent potential complications, being necessary to perform at least 15-20 procedures per year to maintain dexterity.
The limitation of indications and cases mean that few centers can meet these requirements and it is advisable to leave this technique to expert surgeons.
Contraindications to the technique are few, but previous anatomic deformity that prevents access and orientation, joint ankyloses, nerve transpositions, or extra-articular infection are the main ones.
Recommendations for starting to learn elbow arthroscopy:
It is recommended to start with the simplest surgical indications such as removal of free bodies, partial synovectomies in rheumatic patients, chondral debridement due to osteochondritis dissecans or lesions of the radial head, and epicondylitis treatment. The most complex indications such as post-traumatic joint fibrosis, osteosynthesis of radial head fractures or the treatment of instabilities, better once the technique has been mastered.