Elbow Pain / Elbow Replacement Products
Discovery® Elbow System
The elbow consists of three compartments (humerus, ulna, and radius) that provide two types of motion. The humerus and the ulna allow for hinge-type motion. The humerus and the radius provide rotational motion. The joint surfaces are covered by cartilage, providing a cushion between the bones. The cartilage can become damaged by various events, including fracture, osteoarthritis, and inflammatory or rheumatoid arthritis. When rheumatoid arthritis is present, the cartilage is not being provided with enough lubrication and nourishment. This leads to loss of motion and pain in the elbow.
Recent technological advancements and newer surgical instruments are available for elbow implants, giving surgeons more options in their efforts to relieve pain and restore joint function.
Similar to total knee and total hip replacement, the cartilage and bone in the elbow are replaced with an artificial implant. Due to the concentration of surrounding nerves, vessels, and soft tissues, the elbow can be a complicated joint to replace. Biomet's Discovery® Elbow System is designed to anatomically replicate the natural anatomy, providing a better fit for the patient.
Most elbow implants are made up of a loose hinge mechanism that resembles a door hinge with a specified amount of "play" built in, which allows for specific types of upper extremity movement. The Discovery Elbow replicates anatomically correct movement by incorporating a spherical hinge. This unique hinge design effectively spreads out the normal joint stresses over the surface area of the polyethylene (plastic) portion of the implant. This can result in a significant minimization of wear, which is often a leading cause of implant failure.
The Discovery Elbow System is one implant option available to you and your surgeon. Only your orthopedic surgeon can determine if you are a candidate for this system or if another implant would better address your unique situation.
Biomet is a manufacturer of orthopedic implants and does not practice medicine. Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine what treatment is appropriate. Individual results of total joint replacement may vary. The life of any implant will depend on your weight, age, activity level, and other factors. For more information on risks, warnings, and possible adverse effects, see the Patient Risk Information section found within Biomet.com. Always ask your doctor if you have any questions regarding your particular condition or treatment options.
Where would you like to go next?
- Elbow Pain : Elbow Replacement Products
- Research Joint Replacement
- Joint Replacement Home
- Main Patient Page
- Find-a-Doctor Directory
- Request Additional Information
brochure to help you make an educated decision about your treatment options. 