When Elbow Surgery Goes Wrong: Understanding Botched Elbow Surgeries By Dr. Kashyap Solanki – Orthopaedic Surgeon, Andheri East, Mumbai

Elbow surgeries, whether done for fractures, arthritis, or ligament injuries, are often life-changing procedures. However, in rare cases, things don’t go as planned. Patients may experience increased pain, stiffness, nerve damage, or loss of function – signs that the surgery may have been botched or improperly performed.

Fracture of the capitellum with lateral condyle of humerus.

What Can Go Wrong?

A poorly executed elbow surgery can lead to:

• Malalignment of bones after fracture fixation

• Nerve injuries, especially involving the ulnar nerve

• Implant-related complications such as loosening, migration, or infection

• Loss of range of motion due to improper rehabilitation or joint fusion

• Persistent pain or swelling that worsens over time

Fixation of the lateral condyle and capitellum may involve non-anatomic reduction and malpositioned implants, leading to joint incongruity and mechanical instability. Such errors can result in nonunion, chronic pain, stiffness, and early degenerative changes in the elbow.

Common Causes of Failed Elbow Surgeries

• Inadequate preoperative planning

• Inaccurate implant placement

• Failure to protect nerves during surgery

• Skipping physiotherapy or premature return to activity

• Infections not recognized early

Signs You Need a Second Opinion

If you're experiencing any of the following after elbow surgery, it may be time to consult a specialist:

• Severe restriction in movement even after rehab

• Shooting pain, numbness, or tingling

• Swelling or discharge at the surgical site

• Feeling that “something’s not right” with your elbow

  
  

What Can Be Done?

As an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex joint reconstructions, I frequently treat patients with failed surgeries. Depending on the issue, corrective options may include:

• Revision surgery to realign bones or remove faulty implants

• Nerve decompression or transposition

• Joint release procedures for stiffness

• Customized physiotherapy protocols for functional recovery

Don't Ignore a Botched Elbow Surgery

If you're suffering from persistent issues after an elbow operation, you're not alone. A second opinion can help identify if the surgery was improperly done and what can be done to restore function.

About Dr. Kashyap Solanki

Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri East, Mumbai

Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.

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