[The signification of total elbow replacement in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis]

The purpose of this paper is to emphasis the signification of total elbow replacement in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Total elbow replacement were performed in twenty elbows in fourteen patients who had rheumatoid arthritis from 1982 to 1990. The follow-up period ranged from 2 to 9 years. Pain relief was complete in twelve patients. Preoperation flexion averaged 119 degrees, increasing to 127 degrees. Preoperation extension averaged -34 degrees, increasing to -24 degrees postoperation. There were no infection and fracture postoperatively. Radiolucent lines were seen in four humeral components, in one ulnar component. Proximal subsidence of the humeral component were found in two elbows. Posterior dislocation occurred in three elbows. In two cases, reduction was successful by three weeks immobilization in a plaster cast with the elbow in the flexion position. Transient ulnar nerve palsy was evident in two elbows. Revision surgeries were performed in two cases, which occurred dislocation and progressive subsidence. Multiple replacements of major joints were performed in ten patients. Two joints were replaced in two patients, three joints were replaced in six patients, four joints were replaced in two patients. Four total elbow replacements were performed accompanied with other joints replacement in the same anesthesia. We recommended two joint replacements in the same anesthesia in patient with good general condition. All patients had functional improvements after total elbow replacement, especially reaching of the arm. Four patients improved the walking by being able to use stich after total elbow replacement.