These incisions allow the arthroscope, a device with a miniature television camera, to see where the bone spur is located. The bone spur is then removed. Each incision is closed with a single stitch, with the entire procedure taking 60 to 90 minutes. Within 48 hours of arthroscopic surgery, the player is allowed to use the elbow, as long as he takes it easy and avoids vigorous motion or heavy lifting. After a week or so, the stitches are removed and the player begins exercising.
Full recovery takes between three and six weeks.
There is little a professional pitcher can do to guard against elbow problems, except for maintaining proper body mechanics, which is difficult to do for every single pitch among the many thrown throughout a season. Rincon's condition is similar to that of starter Charles Nagy, although Nagy apparently does not need surgery, and thus should return weeks sooner. All rights reserved. All rights reserved.