Surgical management of the rheumatoid elbow

Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis demonstrate elbow involvement that may limit upper extremity function, usually within 5 years of disease onset. Initial management consists of nonsurgical measures that address synovitis and capsular inflammation in an effort to diminish pain and maintain elbow range of motion. Disease progression may result in articular damage and ligamentous compromise, causing increased symptoms, elbow instability, and functional debilitation. For patients unresponsive to nonsurgical management, open or arthroscopic synovectomy may provide relief of symptoms. For those with more advanced disease, elbow arthroplasty is a reasonable alternative. Advancements in prosthetic technology and surgical techniques allow elbow arthroplasty to be reliably performed in patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow.