Complications of Elbow and Wrist Arthroscopy

Abstract

Arthroscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of various elbow and wrist disorders. Because of the close proximity of vital neurovascular structures, arthroscopy of these joints must be undertaken with a thorough understanding of the anatomy and with experience with the surgical procedures. Although there are reports of complications from procedures in both joints, there is a lack of agreement as to the rate and types of complications. We reviewed the literature to help the reader develop a comprehensive understanding of the risks and plentiful complications associated with arthroscopic procedures of the elbow and wrist and to describe strategies to prevent adverse outcomes.

Arthroscopic R-LCL plication for symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE)

“…Three components can be distinguished: the radial band (R-LCL, diamonds), the ulnar band (U-LCL, circles) and the annular ligament (asterisks). Note the diamond shape of the R-LCL, which blends, in its distal part, with the annular ligament fibres 1 3 instability; this adverse event may directly depend on the surgical procedure (non-anatomical repair or mechanical failure of the anchors) or on inadequate physiotherapy [1,23,27,33]. However, loss of ROM is considered an acceptable drawback of a procedure which relieves pain and reduces instability [51,53].…”

Neurologic complications in common wrist and hand surgical procedures

“…40-44 In addition, mid-carpal portals are placed in close association to the distal, sensory portion of the posterior interosseous nerve. 43 When arthroscopy is applied for repair of tears of the triangular fibrocartilage within the wrist joint, both internal-external and all-internal techniques can be associated with post-operative dysfunction of the DSBUN. 45 , 46 …”

Factors That Increase the Risk of Infection After Elbow Arthroscopy: Analysis of Patient Demographics, Medical Comorbidities, and Steroid Injections in 2,704 Medicare Patients

“…The reported complications in the current literature include peripheral nerve injury, heterotopic ossification, joint stiffness, compartment syndrome, septic arthritis, and obesity. 4,[7][8][9][10] Despite the increase in the use of elbow arthroscopy over the past decade, complication rates remain largely ill-defined and limited to institutional series and case reports. 3,4,[11][12][13] Although septic arthritis after elbow arthroscopy is infrequent, its effects can be devastating to the patient, and this often leads to subsequent procedures, a prolonged course of antibiotics, and an overall decline of joint function.…”