When to replace elbow?

See below: This is a discussion you need to have with your doctor as there are many variables in play, such as your age, activity, degree of joint damage, other illness, etc.

Last resort: Elbow replacement surgery is really reserved as the end of the road procedure for severe arthritis or deformity of the elbow. A replacement carries with it high risk of infection (upwards to 10%) and permanent weight lifting restrictions of less than 2-5lbs. This is really meant for low demand elderly people with failure of all other measures or severe fractures in the elderly.

Elbow replacement: This is a challenging orthopedic replacement that has higher risk of infection and loosening than other joints. Go to a well-experience elbow arthroplasty orthopedic surgeon.