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Capitellocondylar total elbow replacement for rheumatoid arthritis
S P Hodgson1, R W Parkinson, J Noble
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Manchester, Hope Hospital, Salford, UK.
Journal of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh
|April 1, 1991
Summary
Capitellocondylar total elbow replacements effectively relieved pain and improved range of motion in rheumatoid arthritis patients. While most experienced transient ulnar nerve issues, long-term loosening was not observed.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Rheumatology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis frequently causes severe elbow joint destruction.
- Total elbow replacement is a surgical option for end-stage rheumatoid arthritis affecting the elbow.
- Capitellocondylar prostheses are utilized for elbow joint reconstruction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes of capitellocondylar total elbow replacement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
- To assess pain relief, range of motion, and radiological findings post-surgery.
- To report complications associated with this specific type of total elbow arthroplasty.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 23 capitellocondylar total elbow replacements in 18 rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- Follow-up duration averaged 3 years (range: 1.5-5 years).
- Assessment included pain levels, range of motion, and radiological evaluation for loosening.
Main Results:
- All patients reported significant pain relief following the procedure.
- Postoperative range of motion improved in all measured directions.
- No radiological evidence of loosening was detected.
- Complications included transient ulnar nerve palsy in 65% of elbows and delayed wound healing in two cases.
Conclusions:
- Capitellocondylar total elbow replacement provides effective pain relief and functional improvement for rheumatoid arthritis patients.
- The procedure demonstrates good short-to-medium term radiological stability.
- Transient ulnar nerve palsy is a notable complication requiring careful monitoring and management.