Complications After Elbow Arthroscopy

Over the past decade, indications of elbow arthroscopy have been extended, and it is now considered as an integral part of surgical therapy of the elbow joint. Elbow arthroscopy tends to be a low-risk procedure. However, due to the anatomy of the elbow joint, arthroscopy can cause serious complications. Infection rates after elbow arthroscopy are rare. A general recommendation of a preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis cannot be made due to the lack of evidence. The most serious complications are temporary and permanent nerve injuries. Portal placement, the course of nerves, and careful utilization of shavers and other devices can influence the outcome of arthroscopy. This chapter portrays various complications and offers assistance on how to elude problems during elbow arthroscopy.