Total elbow arthroplasty for primary osteoarthritis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Arthroplasty
• Elbow Joint Reconstruction

Background:

• Primary osteoarthritis of the elbow is an uncommon reason for total elbow arthroplasty (TEA).
• Higher complication rates in younger, active patients may outweigh short-term benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate pain relief, functional outcomes, complications, and survival rates of TEA for primary elbow osteoarthritis.
• To assess the efficacy of TEA in a cohort of patients with primary elbow osteoarthritis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 20 consecutive TEAs performed between 1984 and 2011 for primary elbow osteoarthritis.
• Mean follow-up was 8.9 years, with outcome measures including pain, motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and patient satisfaction.
• Analysis of complications and reoperations was conducted.

Main Results:

• Pain significantly improved from 3.6 to 1.5 (P < .001).
• Range of motion showed no significant change; preoperative flexion contractures persisted.
• Fifteen elbows without mechanical failure reported satisfaction, with 5 excellent, 2 good, and 6 fair Mayo Elbow Performance Scores.

Conclusions:

• Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is a reliable option for pain relief in primary elbow osteoarthritis.
• Restoration of elbow extension may require more aggressive surgical techniques.
• Complications were noted, but mechanical failure rates were low given the patient population and follow-up duration.