Elbow arthroscopy, commonly referred to as keyhole elbow surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to diagnose and treat a range of elbow conditions. The procedure uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialised surgical instruments inserted through tiny incisions around the elbow joint.
This technique allows detailed visualisation of the joint while minimising disruption to surrounding tissues. In appropriately selected patients, elbow arthroscopy may assist with pain relief, improve movement, and address mechanical symptoms such as catching or locking of the joint.
On this page, you will learn how elbow conditions are assessed prior to arthroscopic surgery, when keyhole elbow surgery may be recommended, the types of procedures that can be performed using arthroscopy, expected recovery and rehabilitation timelines, and guidance on safely returning to work, sport, and everyday activities following surgery.
Compared with traditional open surgery, arthroscopy typically involves:
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