Elbow replacement surgery removes damaged areas of the elbow joint and replaces them with parts made of
metal and plastic (implants). This surgery is also called elbow arthroplasty.
Three bones meet in the elbow. The upper arm bone (humerus) connects like a loose hinge to the larger of
the two forearm bones (ulna). The two forearm bones (radius and ulna) work together to provide
rotation.
Traditionally, elbow replacement surgery has had a higher rate of complications than surgeries to
replace hip or knee joints. But recent advances in surgical technique and implant design have improved
the success rate of elbow replacements
Shoulder replacement removes damaged areas of bone and replaces them with parts made of metal and plastic
(implants). This surgery is called shoulder arthroplasty (ARTH-row-plas-tee).
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint. The round head (ball) of the upper arm bone fits into a shallow
socket in the shoulder. Damage to the joint can cause pain, weakness and stiffness.
Shoulder implants are available in a few different shapes and a range of sizes. Replacement options
include partial and total using either anatomic or reverse implants.