Total elbow arthroplasty for posttraumatic arthrosis.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Reconstructive Surgery

Background:

• Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is often a salvage procedure for acute elbow injuries and posttraumatic conditions.
• Linked and semiconstrained prostheses with an anterior flange are considered ideal for resisting forces.
• Stem fixation without condyle preservation is crucial for posttraumatic cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of total elbow arthroplasty.
• To identify ideal prosthetic features and fixation methods for posttraumatic elbow conditions.
• To assess the complication rates and mechanical failure modes associated with TEA.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical outcomes and implant performance in patients undergoing TEA.
• Analysis of prosthetic design features, including linkage, constraint, and flange.
• Evaluation of fixation techniques, particularly stem fixation without condyle preservation.
• Assessment of complications such as periprosthetic fracture, implant fracture, and wear.

Main Results:

• TEA can be highly effective for properly selected patients with posttraumatic arthrosis.
• Complications occur in approximately 25% of patients, including mechanical failures like fracture and wear.
• The rate of aseptic loosening after 10 years is less than 10%, which is lower than anticipated.
• Linked, semiconstrained implants with an anterior flange demonstrate efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Total elbow arthroplasty is an effective treatment for specific posttraumatic elbow conditions.
• Careful patient selection and appropriate prosthetic design are critical for successful outcomes.
• While complications exist, TEA offers a favorable alternative to other salvage procedures with manageable long-term risks.