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Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Published on: July 5, 2011
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Total Elbow Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review.
Chantal L Welsink1, Kaj T A Lambers2, Derek F P van Deurzen1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, OLVG, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
JBJS Reviews
|July 12, 2017
Summary
Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) offers respectable outcomes for degenerative joint disease and complex fractures. However, survival and complication rates for TEA are less favorable than other joint replacements.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) aims to restore elbow anatomy and stability.
- Indications for TEA are expanding due to promising results in complex fracture treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent literature on the outcomes of commonly performed total elbow arthroplasties (TEAs).
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search identified 73 relevant studies (9,379 TEAs).
- Data extraction focused on implant design, type (linked/unlinked), and indication.
- Outcome parameters included survival rates, range of motion, pain, and complications.
Main Results:
- Weighted mean survival rates varied by implant design and type (e.g., linked: 85.5% at 7.8 years).
- Good overall range of motion was observed (mean flexion 129°, mean extension lag 30°).
- Complication rates ranged from 11% to 38%, with clinical loosening most common (7%).
Conclusions:
- Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) provides respectable functional results.
- Survival and complication rates for TEA remain less favorable compared to other joint arthroplasties.

