Who Is The Best Elbow Surgeon On Long Island?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo, MD, is one of the leading elbow surgeons in Long Island, known for treating complex elbow conditions. After earning his medical degree from New York Medical College, he completed his orthopedic residency at SUNY Stony Brook and then pursued fellowship training in sports medicine and shoulder surgery.

As the founder of Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Dr. Charles Ruotolo also leads a team of orthopedic specialists who provide trusted care across Long Island. Through precise diagnosis and individualized treatment, he has helped many patients reduce pain, improve function, and return to daily activities with greater comfort. If you are seeking advanced treatment for an elbow injury in Long Island, schedule a consultation with Dr. Charles Ruotolo.

Why Should You Choose Dr. Charles Ruotolo For Elbow Surgery?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo has more than 20 years of experience in orthopedic surgery. He carefully evaluates the source of your symptoms and develops a personalized surgical plan based on the severity of your condition and your recovery goals. His surgical approach focuses on treating the structural cause of elbow pain while helping restore strength and motion.

Depending on your condition, he may recommend minimally invasive techniques to reduce soft-tissue disruption and support a more efficient recovery. Besides that, he plans each procedure with the goal of maintaining joint stability, preserving soft-tissue support, and improving long-term elbow function. This level of surgical precision is especially important in cases involving tendon injury, instability, or other complex elbow conditions such as tennis elbow and torn UCL.

In addition, many patients live with elbow pain longer than they should because they are unsure whether their symptoms are serious enough to require a surgical procedure. They often have questions about healing time, postoperative limitations, and when they can safely return to normal activity. Dr. Charles Ruotolo addresses these concerns through careful evaluation and direct explanation of the recommended treatment. This helps patients understand the reason for the surgical recommendation and the expected recovery timeline.

What Qualifications Should A Top Elbow Surgeon Have?

A top elbow surgeon should have advanced fellowship training in elbow or upper extremity surgery, high-volume experience with both arthroscopic and open procedures, and board certification in orthopedic surgery. They should also stay up to date with research, use modern techniques, and clearly explain the benefits and risks of the procedure to patients so they can make informed decisions.

Here are some other important qualifications you should look for in an elbow surgeon:

• Proven experience treating a wide range of elbow conditions, from sports injuries to complex fractures and revision surgeries.
• Active participation in professional orthopedic or sports medicine societies, showing ongoing engagement with best practices.
• A consistent record of positive outcomes and low complication rates, ideally supported by published results or practice data.
• Strong communication and bedside manner, including the ability to listen carefully, answer questions clearly, and respect patient goals.
• Access to advanced imaging and rehabilitation resources, ensuring coordinated care from diagnosis through post-operative recovery.

Is Dr. Charles Ruotolo Active In Medical Education?

Yes, Dr. Charles Ruotolo is actively training the next generation of orthopedic surgeons. He teaches advanced arthroscopic techniques and shares his expertise through ongoing teaching, lectures, and publications. He also mentors residents and fellows, guiding them through complex elbow and shoulder cases.

Dr. Charles Ruotolo serves as Chairman of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Nassau University Medical Center, where he helps guide resident education and clinical training. Moreover, as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, he trains medical students and residents in orthopedic surgery.

He also serves as an Associate Master Instructor of Arthroscopy for the Arthroscopy Association of North America, where he teaches advanced arthroscopic techniques to other orthopedic surgeons. In addition, Dr. Charles Ruotolo contributes to the medical literature on elbow conditions. For example, he has published multiple articles in leading peer‑reviewed journals such as Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, Arthroscopy, and Journal of Orthopedic Trauma.

What Age Groups Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Treat?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo treats patients of all ages, including children, teens, adults, and older adults, with orthopedic and sports-related problems. He provides advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments with recovery plans tailored to each patient’s age, lifestyle, and daily activities.

For younger patients, he plans a safe return to school sports, physical education, and everyday play without stressing healing joints. Among working adults, his priority is to relieve pain and restore function so they can stay productive on the job while minimizing time away from work. In contrast, for older adults, Dr. Charles Ruotolo focuses on pain relief, balance, and safe movement to help them manage daily tasks with less discomfort.

Which Elbow Surgeries Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Offer?

Our elbow surgeon performs elbow arthroscopy, minimally invasive distal biceps tendon reconstruction, and cubital tunnel release. He also performs fracture fixation (ORIF, external fixation), elbow joint replacement, golfer’s elbow surgery, and ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. These procedures address pain, nerve compression, instability, and complex injuries to restore motion and function.

What Minimally Invasive Procedures Do We Offer at Total Orthopedics?

At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, we use elbow arthroscopy to treat problems such as tennis elbow, arthritis, loose bodies, elbow bursitis, cartilage damage, and instability. We also perform minimally invasive biceps tendon reconstruction to reattach a torn biceps and restore strength with a faster recovery.

Here’s how these minimally invasive procedures help treat elbow conditions:

Elbow Arthroscopy

Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive “keyhole” procedure that allows surgeons to treat problems inside the elbow joint through small incisions using a camera and fine instruments. This approach helps diagnose and treat the source of pain while protecting healthy tissue and shortening recovery time. It is often performed as an outpatient procedure, so most patients go home the same day and begin gentle motion under guidance early.

Common conditions treated with elbow arthroscopy include:

• Tennis elbow and other tendinopathies that do not improve with injections
• Loose bodies, cartilage damage, and catching or locking inside the joint
• Arthritis, bone spurs, and painful stiffness that limit motion
• Elbow instability, throwing‑related injuries, or post‑traumatic scar tissue
• Early degenerative changes, when preserving the joint is a priority

In addition, elbow arthroscopy results in small incisions and minimal disturbance of muscles, ligaments, ulnar nerve, and articular cartilage lines that allow smooth movement of the elbow joint. This lower tissue trauma makes it easier to begin motion and follow a rehabilitation program. In fact, according to a review published in PubMed Central, arthroscopic techniques result in less scarring, reduced post‑operative pain, and faster recovery than open surgery on the elbow.

Minimally Invasive Biceps Tendon Reconstruction

Minimally invasive biceps tendon reconstruction is used when the distal biceps tendon tears away from the bone near the elbow, causing sudden weakness with lifting, twisting, or turning the forearm. Through a small incision, the tendon is reattached to the bone with anchors or buttons, restoring strength and allowing a more predictable recovery. The goal is to help you regain power for lifting, carrying, and rotational tasks you rely on at work, in the gym, or in athletic activities.

This procedure is often recommended in the following situations:

• A complete or high‑grade distal biceps tendon tear is confirmed.
• The injury is associated with a distinct “pop,” bruising, and sudden loss of strength.
• Occupational or athletic demands require heavy lifting, gripping, or repetitive forearm rotation.
• Conservative management has failed to restore sufficient strength or functional use of the arm.

After biceps tendon reconstruction, recovery usually begins with the temporary use of a sling or brace to protect the repair, followed by early, controlled motion as healing progresses. Over time, your recovery focuses on gradual strengthening and a progressive return to work, lifting, and sports. According to a PubMed review, a phased program that transitions from protection to range‑of‑motion and then strengthening helps restore function safely over several months.

When Should You Visit An Elbow Specialist?

You should visit our elbow specialist if elbow pain, stiffness, or weakness lasts more than a few weeks or limits your work, sports, or daily tasks. Sudden injury, visible deformity, elbow dislocation, or severe pain also needs prompt evaluation by an elbow specialist. Here are some other conditions that need immediate medical attention:

• Broken bone around the elbow after a fall on an outstretched hand or traumatic injury
• Suspected injury to the ulnar collateral ligament from throwing or other overhead athletic activities
• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) causes pain on the inner side of the elbow.

• Advanced rheumatoid arthritis or other common disease conditions affecting the elbow that lead to progressive deformity or severe pain
• Cubital tunnel syndrome with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand from pressure on the ulnar nerve
• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondyle) an overuse injury causing lateral elbow pain that does not improve with rest
• Recurrent swelling and pain from a condition called olecranon bursitis or an olecranon bursa lead to inflammation
• Complex injuries involving blood vessels, nerves, or multiple bones in the elbow joint

At our clinic, we often see patients who have lived with elbow pain because a past bad medical experience has reduced their trust in specialist care. Some patients do not come in until elbow pain disrupts work, family responsibilities, or everyday tasks. However, waiting too long can worsen the condition, leading to more pain, stiffness, and a longer recovery. So, if you are experiencing elbow pain, book an appointment with Dr. Charles Ruotolo.

When Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Recommend Joint Replacement?

Our surgeon, Dr. Charles Ruotolo, may recommend joint replacement surgery when non-surgical treatments fail to relieve persistent pain, stiffness, and swelling after 6 to 12 months. When symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments or you experience severe pain, it often signals significant elbow wear and tear.

The elbow is a complex hinge joint formed by the humerus in the upper arm bone and the radius and ulna in the forearm. This elbow joint helps you bend and straighten, making it easier to lift, carry, and perform everyday tasks. To keep these movements smooth, articular cartilage covers the joint surfaces, reducing friction and allowing the bones of the elbow to glide effortlessly as you move.

On the other hand, strong ligaments and tendons surround the elbow to keep it stable during these motions. However, when cartilage wears down or supporting tissues are damaged, the joint becomes painful and stiff. In this situation, our surgeon performs joint replacement to help restore more comfortable movement.

Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Treat Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Yes, Dr. Charles Ruotolo treats cubital tunnel syndrome. He focuses on relieving pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow, which helps reduce numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Based on the severity of your symptoms, treatment may include activity modification, nighttime elbow padding or bracing, and nerve compression release.

Here are the common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome:

• Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers
• Weakness in the hand or reduced grip strength
• Pain or discomfort along the inside of the elbow
• Symptoms that worsen when the elbow stays bent for a long time
• A “pins and needles” feeling in the forearm or hand
• Difficulty with fine tasks, such as buttoning clothes or typing
• A feeling of clumsiness or dropping objects more often than usual

If you notice any of these symptoms, visit our clinic to get proper treatment. This is because if cubital tunnel syndrome is left untreated, numbness and weakness can slowly worsen over time. As the condition progresses, you may develop permanent loss of sensation, muscle wasting in the hand, and reduced fine motor control. In fact, studies on cubital tunnel syndrome report that patients with severe nerve compression experience only partial symptom relief after surgery, compared with those treated earlier.

How Do We Treat Elbow Fractures at Total Orthopedics?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo performs a focused physical exam and orders imaging to define the type and severity of the fracture. Based on these findings, stable fractures are managed with immobilization. In contrast, complex or displaced fractures may require surgery to restore proper alignment and function in this complex joint formed by the elbow’s three bones.

Our surgeon may recommend the following surgeries for elbow fractures, depending on your condition:

Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)

In ORIF, Dr. Charles Ruotolo repositions the broken bone fragments and holds them in place with plates, screws, or wires. He recommends open reduction and internal fixation when the fracture is displaced, unstable, or involves the joint surface. This approach restores bone alignment and joint stability. It also helps protect elbow motion and reduces the risk of long-term stiffness.

Elbow Arthroplasty (Elbow Replacement)

Elbow arthroplasty focuses on replacing severely damaged parts of the joint with metal and plastic components. Dr. Charles Ruotolo recommends this option for complex fractures, especially in older patients, when the bone or joint surface cannot be repaired with plates and screws.

By resurfacing the joint, this procedure helps relieve pain, improve motion, and allow a more comfortable return to light daily activities. Moreover, this surgery is performed under general or local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.

External Fixation

With external fixation, the fracture is stabilized using pins placed into the bone and connected to a frame outside the skin. This method is particularly useful when there is significant soft-tissue injury or swelling that makes traditional internal fixation unsafe. It provides temporary stability and protects the surrounding tissues while they recover. It also helps our surgeon plan additional surgery once your elbow stabilizes and blood flow and soft tissues have improved.

Can Dr. Charles Ruotolo Fix Previous Elbow Surgeries?

Yes, Dr. Charles Ruotolo fixes problems from previous elbow surgeries. He evaluates your medical history, imaging, and current symptoms to understand why the first surgery did not relieve your symptoms. Based on the diagnosis, he may recommend revision surgery, hardware removal, or soft-tissue repair to improve pain, stability, and function.

Here is how revision surgery can help fix a previous elbow surgery:

• Redoing Fixation: It helps realign the bone and secure it more firmly when the fracture has not healed correctly.
• Adjusting Implants: Adjusting or replacing implants provides better joint support if the original hardware no longer fits your bone or anatomy well.
• Removing Hardware: Removing painful or prominent hardware can relieve irritation caused by screws or plates that rub against surrounding soft tissues.
• Soft-Tissue Release and Repair: Releasing scar tissue and tightening or repairing ligaments helps restore smooth movement and improve stability around the elbow.

What Follow-Up Care Does Dr. Charles Ruotolo Provide?

Dr. Charles Ruotolo provides structured follow-up care after your elbow treatment. He reviews your healing progress at regular visits, monitors wound healing and joint motion, and answers any concerns about your recovery. Based on your progress, he adjusts your activity level, advises on home exercises, and guides you on safely returning to work and daily tasks.

Here is how our team supports you throughout the recovery:

Phase 1: Immediate Postoperative Period

In this early phase, we focus on pain control, wound care, and protecting the surgical area. Our team explains how to use your sling or splint and how to keep the incision clean and dry. We also review which movements to avoid, especially on slippery surfaces or when lifting or moving objects. In addition, we outline warning signs and symptom changes that need immediate medical attention.

Phase 2: Early Healing and Protection

As the incision heals, we help you gradually begin gentle motion within the limits set by Dr. Charles Ruotolo, while protecting the articulating regions of the elbow. We also explain safe ways to use your arm during daily tasks, such as dressing and personal care. In addition, we provide instructions on using ice packs at home. During this phase, our medical team also adjusts your restrictions and answers your questions so you can manage your elbow safely at home.

Phase 3: Gradual Strengthening and Function

Once the bone and soft tissues have regained strength, we guide you in gradually increasing use of the arm, especially in tasks that require repeated muscle use. Our team outlines simple home exercises to improve motion and control, and explains how to increase activity levels so you do not overload the joint’s shock-absorbing structures. At each visit, we adjust these recommendations based on your progress and comfort.

Phase 4: Return to Work and Activities

In the final phase, we help you plan a safe return to work, sports, or hobbies that may involve lifting or repeated muscle contractions. Our surgeon explains which tasks you can resume and adjust, and what to avoid long-term to protect your elbow and the bony bump areas. Our goal is to help you safely return to your normal routine with less discomfort.

Schedule A Visit With Dr. Charles Ruotolo In Long Island for Advanced Elbow Surgery!

No generic “one‑size‑fits‑all” plan can fix a complex elbow problem, especially if pain limits your work, exercise, or daily tasks. That is why, in Long Island, many patients quietly live with stiffness, weakness, or a past elbow injury because they are unsure who to trust for advanced elbow care.

At Total Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Dr. Charles Ruotolo provides advanced care for multiple elbow conditions. He tailors each treatment plan to the individual patient, focusing on the specific causes of pain and functional loss. Moreover, he provides personalized, evidence-based guidance on activity restrictions to help you protect your elbow while it heals. Call 855-321-6784 or visit our clinics in Syosset, Massapequa, East Meadow, Deer Park, or Commack for personalized treatment.

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