Management of elbow osteoarthritis

Primary osteoarthritis of the elbow is characterized by painful stiffness, mechanical symptoms, and the presence of hypertrophic osteophytes. Preservation of the joint space is common and may account for the good results that are usually achieved with nonoperative treatment and nonprosthetic arthroplasty. Elbow osteoarthritis typically affects middle-aged men who engage in strenuous manual activity. Open or arthroscopic capsular release and removal of impinging osteophytes are the primary surgical treatment options. The relative sparing of joint cartilage makes elbow osteoarthritis unique in this regard and amenable to this treatment. Arthroplasty is rarely indicated for primary osteoarthritis of the elbow and should be reserved for elderly individuals with low demands for whom other treatment options have failed.