Elbow Arthroscopic Osteocapsuloplasty in Singapore

Appointments by prior arrangement

Introduction

Elbow stiffness can significantly limit daily activities such as eating, dressing and sports participation. When non-surgical treatment is not effective, surgical intervention may be required to restore motion.

Elbow arthroscopic osteocapsuloplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat stiffness caused by bone spurs, capsular tightness and early arthritis.

As an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries, Dr Puah Ken Lee performs advanced arthroscopic procedures to improve joint function while minimising surgical trauma.

What is Elbow Arthroscopic Osteocapsuloplasty?

Elbow arthroscopic osteocapsuloplasty is a keyhole surgical procedure that involves:

• Removal of bone spurs (osteophytes)
• Release of a tight joint capsule
• Clearance of loose bodies
• Restoration of joint space and motion

This is performed using a camera and specialised instruments inserted through small incisions.

What Conditions Does It Treat?

This procedure is commonly used for:

• Elbow stiffness
• Early elbow arthritis
• Post-traumatic stiffness
• Impingement due to bone spurs
• Loss of range of motion affecting function

Symptoms of Elbow Stiffness

Patients may experience:

• Difficulty bending or straightening the elbow
• Pain at the extremes of motion
• Locking or catching sensations
• Reduced ability to perform daily tasks or sports

When is Surgery Considered?

Surgery may be recommended when:

• Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy
• Range of motion is significantly restricted
• Bone spurs or structural abnormalities are present
• Functional limitations affect quality of life

Advantages of Arthroscopic Technique

Compared to open surgery, arthroscopic osteocapsuloplasty offers:

• Smaller incisions
• Less soft tissue disruption
• Better visualisation of the joint
• Faster recovery in suitable patients

The Procedure

The surgery is performed under anaesthesia. A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the elbow joint, allowing precise removal of bone spurs and release of tight structures.

👉 Learn more about elbow arthroscopy

Recovery

Recovery typically involves:

• Early movement to maintain range of motion
• Physiotherapy to regain function
• Gradual return to daily activities

The recovery timeline varies depending on the severity of stiffness and individual factors.

Outcomes

Most patients experience:

• Improved range of motion
• Reduced pain
• Better function in daily activities and sports

Outcomes depend on the severity of pre-existing stiffness and joint condition.

If you have persistent elbow stiffness affecting your daily activities or sports, surgical treatment may be an option.

Book a consultation or contact the clinic to discuss whether elbow arthroscopic osteocapsuloplasty is suitable for you.

Elbow arthroscopy is commonly performed by an elbow specialist.

Why Choose Dr Puah Ken Lee

• Specialist in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries
• Fellowship-trained in advanced arthroscopic techniques
• Focus on evidence-based, patient-specific treatment
• Practising at Mount Elizabeth Novena

Dr Puah is regularly invited to teach elbow surgery internationally

Book a Consultation

Book a consultation or contact the clinic via WhatsApp to discuss your elbow condition.

Book a consultation at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena

Elbow conditions are common but treatable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can improve outcomes and prevent long-term problems.
Dr Puah Ken Lee is an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore specialising in shoulder, elbow and sports injuries at 360 Orthopaedics, Mount Elizabeth Novena. Patients with persistent elbow symptoms are encouraged to seek specialist evaluation.