Radiocapitellar elbow arthroplasty-a registry study on indications, types, and short-term survival in the Netherlands

Radiocapitellar arthroplasty is a treatment option for pathology of the radial side of the elbow that cannot be managed arthroscopically and for which total elbow arthroplasty is not indicated. The available literature on radiocapitellar arthroplasty is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the survival, indications, and surgical approaches based on data from the Dutch Arthroplasty Register.

The Dutch Arthroplasty Register contained 33 radiocapitellar arthroplasties performed between 2014 and 2024, with a median follow-up of 6.5 years (range, 1-10 years).

Nine arthroplasties required revision (27%), most commonly due to radial component loosening within 3 years after surgery. Post-traumatic osteoarthritis was the most common indication for radiocapitellar arthroplasty. Half of the patients (17/33) had previous surgery. A lateral approach with detachment of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament was most commonly used. The reported, estimated 10-year overall survival rate was 60%.

Despite the relatively high revision rate, radiocapitellar arthroplasty may still have a role within clinical trials with strict inclusion criteria and structured follow-up. Limited implant availability currently represents a barrier to clinical use. In all cases, the revision rate should be discussed with the patients before surgery.