Study of functional outcome of total elbow replacement using semi-constrained elbow prosthesis in non inflamatory elbow arthritis

Abstract

Background: Total Elbow Replacement is considered when there is disabling arthritis of the elbow. Various eteologies are responsible for this arthritis, commonest being Rheumatoid Arthritis. Other causes include, post traumatic arthritis, tumor affection of elbow, rarely haemophilic arthritis. Indications also include distal humerus fractures/ nonunion in select elderly patients. Materials and Methods: 7 patients of Elbow arthritis were operated for Total Elbow Arthroplasty at our institute between, 2013-2015. There were 4 males and 3 females in our study. Baksi sloppy hinge prosthesis was implanted in all our patients. Results: Evaluation of patients was done at 6, 12, 18 months and final evaluation was done at 24 months in all our patients. Significant improvement in functional score, stability and range of movement was documented. Total Elbow Replacement is not a routinely performed surgery as such and has a steep learning curve which is a technical challenge. No major complication was noted in our study. Conclusion: Total Elbow Replacement provides stable, painfree elbow with functional range of movement and negligible complications if performed with technical expertise.