Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
Total elbow arthroplasty for distal humerus fractures
Lori J DeSimone1, Joaquin Sanchez-Sotelo
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street Southwest, Rochester, MN, USA.
Abstract:
Total elbow arthroplasty has become increasingly popular for the treatment of distal humerus fractures in elderly patients with poor bone quality, comminution, and/or pre-existent elbow abnormalities. The procedure is performed without violating the extensor mechanism; the fractured fragments are exposed and resected on both sides of the triceps, and the components can be implanted through the same exposure. Early outcomes are satisfactory in most elbows and compare favorably with internal fixation in this same group of elderly patients. Advances in elbow arthroplasty for fractures will likely combine refinement of the indications and development of implants with lower rates of failure.
Related Concept Videos
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna
Bones of the Upper Limb: Radius
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...
Arteries of the Upper Limbs