Debridement Arthroplasty for Primary Elbow Osteoarthritis

Abstract

†† † Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze clinical and radiological results after debridement arthroplasty during primary elbow arthroplasty. Materials and Methods: This study involved 25 primary elbow osteoarthritis cases that were treated by debridement arthroplasty from January 1996 to December 2004 with at least a 2 year follow up (mean: 41.3 months). Mean patient age was 45.5 years. Clinical outcomes were analyzed using preoperative and postoperative ranges of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS), and Visual Analogue Scale scores. Radiologic analysis was based on plain radiographs. Results: Average flexion-extension arc improved from 72 o ROM preoperatively to 110.5 o postoperatively (p＜0.001). Mean MEPS was 89.5 points preoperatively and increased postoperatively (p＜0.05). Humeral fenestration size decreased from 27% to 20.5%. Bony spurs of the olecranon and coronoid process recurred in 8 cases. Postoperative LOM was found to be associated with spur recurrence (p＜0.05). Conclusion: Debridement arthroplasty may be recommendable for primary elbow osteoarthritis as it reduces pain and improves functional outcomes, including range of motion. Spur recurrence was found to be associated with a reduced range of motion.