The Stanmore total elbow replacement for rheumatoid arthritis

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Rheumatology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects the elbow joint, leading to pain and functional limitation.
• Total elbow replacement is a surgical option for managing advanced rheumatoid arthritis of the elbow.
• The Stanmore prosthesis was utilized in elbow replacement procedures during the study period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the long-term efficacy and outcomes of the Stanmore total elbow prosthesis.
• To evaluate the success rates and complication profile of this specific prosthesis in rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 50 total elbow replacements performed between 1970 and 1982.
• Long-term follow-up was conducted on 44 available elbows.
• Outcomes were categorized as good, fair, or poor, with complications and limitations documented.

Main Results:

• Out of 44 reviewed elbows, 34 (77%) achieved good results.
• Five elbows (approximately 11%) had fair outcomes.
• Five elbows (approximately 11%) were classified as poor outcomes.

Conclusions:

• The Stanmore total elbow prosthesis demonstrated a high rate of good long-term results in rheumatoid arthritis patients.
• Complications and limitations associated with the prosthesis require careful consideration in patient selection and surgical planning.
• Further research may explore newer prosthesis designs and long-term outcomes.