What are elbow services?

Elbow services at the office of Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD, involve conservative and surgical treatment options for common elbow injuries. Dr. Bercik is highly trained in shoulder and elbow surgeries. He uses cutting-edge technologies and procedures to ensure exceptional patient outcomes with a reduced risk of re-injury. 

Which injuries do elbow services address?

Injuries commonly treated by Dr. Bercik include:

Distal biceps ruptures

A distal biceps rupture may occur after attempting to lift something that’s too heavy or a direct hit to the front part of your elbow. The biceps tendon is used when twisting your forearm or flexing your arm. During a distal biceps rupture, you might hear a loud pop and have a visible tissue deformity, as well as bruising and pain. Dr. Bercik is highly trained in repairing this injury.

Triceps ruptures

You use your triceps tendon when straightening your arm. A triceps tendon rupture occurs when the tendon pulls off the bone at your elbow. Dr. Bercik can repair the tendon using a small incision. This allows you to regain strength and function in your elbow after a triceps rupture.

Elbow arthritis

Arthritis causes wear and tear in your elbow and other joints due to loss of cartilage. Joint degeneration linked to arthritis can be painful. Dr. Bercik repairs the arthritic joint using arthroscopic elbow surgery or total elbow replacement. 

Elbow fractures

Elbow fractures are broken bones that may involve the distal olecranon, humorous, or radius. For fractures requiring more than conservative intervention, Dr. Bercik offers arthroscopic surgery and open reduction and internal fixation. 

How are elbow injuries diagnosed?

To learn if you’re a candidate for elbow surgery, Dr. Bercik discusses your medical history and symptoms, examines your elbow joint, and orders X-rays, an MRI, or other imaging procedures.

What do elbow services include?

Dr. Bercik repairs injured tissues, including biceps and triceps tendons, bones, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, and other joint tissues. His procedures range from minimally invasive repair to open surgery. You first receive anesthesia to help you relax or fall asleep. He makes an incision, repairs damaged or painful tissues, and closes the incision afterward. 

What should I expect afterward?

After elbow surgery, follow all post-care instructions. Take your medications as directed, get plenty of rest, keep the surgical area clean, and avoid lifting objects or doing intense physical activity until given permission by Dr. Bercik. Attend follow-up appointments and call the office at any time with questions throughout your treatment.

Schedule an evaluation with Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD, by phone or request one online today to learn more about comprehensive elbow services.