Fellowship-Trained Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon
Elbow Surgery in Salt Lake City & Park City, Utah
The elbow is a complex hinge that connects the upper arm to the forearm, and injuries to it can sideline everything from climbing to typing. Dr. Hatch completed the Harvard Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship and treats the full range of elbow conditions, from tennis elbow and cubital tunnel syndrome to distal biceps ruptures and fractures, for patients across the Wasatch Back and Salt Lake Valley.
Elbow Conditions Dr. Hatch Treats
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), overuse tendinopathies of the forearm muscles where they attach at the elbow
- Distal biceps tendon rupture, a sudden tear of the biceps at the elbow, usually during a heavy lift, that is often repaired promptly in active patients to help restore strength
- Distal triceps tendon tear
- Cubital tunnel syndrome, compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow causing numbness in the ring and small fingers
- Elbow fractures and dislocations, including radial head and olecranon fractures
- Elbow stiffness and loose bodies
- Elbow arthritis
Nonsurgical Treatment
Many elbow tendon problems improve without surgery. Dr. Hatch typically begins with activity modification, a counterforce brace, a focused stretching and eccentric strengthening program, anti-inflammatory measures, and in some cases an injection. Cubital tunnel syndrome is often managed initially with nighttime elbow positioning and activity changes. Surgery is reserved for problems that persist after a thorough course of conservative care, and for injuries such as distal biceps ruptures, which typically do not reattach on their own.
Surgical Procedures
- Distal biceps repair reattaches the torn tendon to the radius, ideally within a few weeks of injury
- Distal triceps repair
- Medial or lateral epicondylar release for tennis or golfer’s elbow that has not responded to therapy
- Cubital tunnel release to decompress the ulnar nerve; Dr. Hatch co-authored a study on a minimally invasive technique for this procedure
- Fracture fixation (ORIF) for displaced elbow fractures
- Elbow arthroscopy for loose bodies, stiffness, and select arthritis
Recovery
Recovery depends on the procedure. Tendon repairs are protected in a brace for several weeks with gradual motion, followed by strengthening; return to heavy lifting typically takes four to six months. Nerve and tendon releases generally allow earlier motion. Dr. Hatch’s elbow protocols for distal biceps repair, distal triceps repair, cubital tunnel release, and epicondylar release describe each phase for you and your therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does a distal biceps rupture need to be repaired?
Ideally within two to three weeks of injury, before the tendon retracts and scars. If you felt a pop at the elbow during a lift and have bruising or a change in the shape of the biceps, call promptly for an evaluation.
Does tennis elbow need surgery?
Rarely. Many cases resolve with activity modification, bracing, and a structured exercise program over several months. Surgery is considered only for cases that remain disabling after thorough conservative care.
What does numbness in my ring and small fingers mean?
It is a common sign of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome). An exam, and sometimes a nerve study, can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Schedule an Elbow Evaluation
Call or text the office or request an appointment online. Dr. Hatch sees elbow patients in Park City, Heber City, and Salt Lake City.