Semi-constrained total elbow arthroplasty in Chinese rheumatoid patients

Seventeen Coonrad-Morrey semi-constrained total elbow replacements were performed on 14 Chinese rheumatoid patients. The elbows were reviewed retrospectively after a mean follow-up of 36 months (range 12-89 months.) After the operation, all patients were satisfied and there was no pain in 15 elbows. There was no radiological sign of loosening in the implanted prostheses and bone graft was incorporated in 93% of primary elbow replacements. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was improved from an average of 40 (range 20-75) to an average of 93 (range 65-100). The arc of flexion was improved from an average of 89 degrees (range 0 degrees-125 degrees ) to 104 degrees (range 35 degrees-125 degrees ). The sizes of implants can be predicted accurately by the planning template in only four elbows (24%) and there were early complications in seven elbows (41%), with one prosthesis removed because of deep infection.