Total elbow replacement is performed for end-stage arthritis of the joint such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis or unsalvageable fractures. In this procedure, your surgeon will remove both the surfaces of the joint including lower part of the arm bone (distal humerus) and upper part of the forearm bone (ulna) and replace with artificial implants consisting of metal and plastic. This may involve the removal or replacement of the upper part of the radius bone (radial head). Following a period of rehabilitation, you are likely to obtain painless movement in the joint, however, you will be instructed not to lift heavy weight with the operated hand.

In case of failure of a primary total elbow replacement, you may be considered for revision elbow replacement when the previous implants will be removed and new (possibly longer) implants will be re-inserted (Revision elbow replacement).