Elbow Replacement in Iran

Understand elbow replacement, the options to discuss with a qualified clinician and what to confirm before planning a visit to Shiraz.

On this page

• Who needs an elbow replacement?
• How is an elbow replacement performed?
• Types of elbow replacement
• Partial elbow replacement
• Total elbow replacement
• Types of elbow prostheses
• Linked prosthesis
• Unlinked prosthesis
• Preparing for elbow replacement surgery
• Elbow replacement recovery and post-op care
• Risks and complications of elbow replacement
• A practical point for your care
• Planning treatment in Shiraz
• Sources

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Elbow joint replacement surgery, also referred to as elbow arthroplasty and often shortened to elbow replacement, is a complicated orthopedic surgery in which the natural elbow joint is replaced with an artificial joint made from two implants attaching to the upper and lower arm bones with a hinge between them (total elbow replacement) or just one piece of prosthesis attaching to the head of one of the arm bones (partial elbow replacement).

Although not as common as knee replacement and hip replacement, elbow replacement surgery is offered at some private and governmental hospitals in Iran. The low cost of orthopedic surgery in Iran has made the country a good destination for elbow arthroplasty candidates.

Who needs an elbow replacement?

Candidates for elbow joint replacement surgery are typically people with elbow pain and arm movement problems caused by traumatic fractures or rheumatoid arthritis.

Older adults are more likely to have to undergo an elbow arthroplasty due to their greater likelihood of breaking a bone from a fall. Fracture of the lower part of the upper arm bone, called the distal humerus, sometimes is so severe that other treatment options don’t work and the individual needs to undergo an elbow replacement surgery. Distal humerus fractures almost always require surgery and other options other than elbow replacement do not yield the desired result.

Other elbow arthroplasty candidates are those with different types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. The improvements in non-surgical treatment options for these group, however, have led to fewer people having to get elbow replacement surgery these days.

Though not a common condition, osteoarthritis in the elbow is another reason people having to get their elbow joint replaced.

How is an elbow replacement performed?

The surgeon then removes any scar tissue, bone spurs, and cartilage residue. Next, he/she places the elbow joint prosthetic devices between the bones of upper and lower arms (humerus and ulna) and attaches them to the bones. Finally, the surgeon closes the incision with stitches or staples and apply a bandage to your elbow. Some surgeons place splints around your arm to keep the bone stable while it heals.

Types of elbow replacement

In terms of the extensiveness of the surgery, an elbow replacement can be partial or total.

Partial elbow replacement

A partial elbow arthroplasty is a treatment option for elbow joint damages, in which only one part of the joint is replaced with an orthopedic prosthesis. This elbow surgery is technically called Hemiarthroplasty.

Total elbow replacement

A total elbow arthroplasty involves replacing all parts of the elbow joint with prostheses. In this procedure, the cartilage of the ends of the three arm bones (the distal end of the humerus in the upper arm and the proximal ends of the ulna and radius in the forearm) is removed and replaced with prosthetic components that together function similar to your natural elbow joint.

Types of elbow prostheses

Elbow joint prosthetic devices come in two main types.

Linked prosthesis

This joint prosthesis is a kind of loose hinge all parts of which are connected. One advantage of linked joint prostheses is that they provide good stability. However, the stresses of movements may result in the loosening of the prosthesis.

Unlinked prosthesis

These joint prostheses have separate pieces each attaching to the end of one bone. Candidates for unlinked elbow replacements should undergo a thorough evaluation of elbow stability, including bone stock, collateral ligament integrity, and periarticular muscle function. If these criteria aren’t met, the procedure can fail and the risk of elbow dislocation increases.

Preparing for elbow replacement surgery

• You need to inform your doctor about any medical condition you may have, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Your doctor also asks about medicines you currently take, so be sure to have the generic names of your medications and their dosages to show to your doctor a few weeks before surgery.
• You have to stop smoking and drinking alcohol a few weeks before surgery as they hinder healing and increase bleeding.
• You need to finish any dental work before considering an elbow replacement because the germs in your mouth may enter the bloodstream and cause infection in the joint.
• You may need blood during elbow replacement surgery, so you can either donate your own blood in advance to be used later during the operation. If you want to use blood from other donors for transfusion, the surgeon may place an order with the blood bank.
• Make sure to prepare your questions to ask your surgeon before surgery. Questions can range from how to prepare for surgery to dietary instructions for post-operative phase.
• You need to arrange for a friend or close relative to be available for a few weeks after surgery to help you with daily activities, including bathing, using the toilet, housework, shopping, and laundry. If you are traveling abroad for an elbow replacement, take someone with you and arrange a hotel that provide special services to surgical patients.
• Prepare your home for recovery by storing frequently used items and foods, organizing frequently used items in easy-to-access places, and checking the safety of your home to prevent tripping and falls. You may need to place a non-slip mat in your bathroom.

Elbow replacement recovery and post-op care

While in the hospital, your physical therapist prescribes a rehabilitation program than include exercises to relax muscles. He/she also instructs you other at-home rehabilitation exercises for your recovery period after elbow surgery.

The bandages and sutures are usually removed before being discharged from the hospital, but your elbow remains swollen and tender for several weeks.

It is vital that you adhere to your doctor’s instructions for proper recovery from your elbow replacement surgery. Be sure to have you’re your questions cleared up by your doctor before leaving the hospital.

Risks and complications of elbow replacement

• infection
• nerve and blood injury
• wearing or loosening of the prosthesis
• Allergic reaction to the prosthesis
• Joint instability
• Bleeding and blood clot
• Pain
• Anesthesia risks

Choosing an experienced surgeon will ensure that the chance of developing complications after your elbow surgery will be as small as possible.

A practical point for your care

Before an operation, the pre-assessment team should review your health, previous tests and all medicines and supplements. Ask for written instructions on medicines, eating, drinking and aftercare that apply to your planned procedure.^[1]

Planning treatment in Shiraz

Ask SanaMedTour about the appropriate specialty, appointment arrangements and practical support for your visit. The treating clinician confirms the diagnosis, treatment options, suitability and follow-up after assessment.

Request an itemised written quote identifying the clinician, facility, tests, treatment, medicines, reviews and any accommodation or transfers included.

Sources

Editorial adaptation: 25 October 2026. General information for planning and discussion; your clinician’s individual instructions take priority.