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Patients with JIA undergoing total elbow arthroplasty had high complication, revision rates
Patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who undergo total elbow arthroplasty have high complication and revision rates but experience long-term benefits from intervention, according to study results.
Researchers identified 29 elbows in 24 patients that had been replaced due to juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) between 1983 and 2005. The implant contour was modified for nine elbows and a customized implant was inserted in five elbows because of underlying deformity.
Eight elbows underwent reoperation during the 10.5-year follow-up period, with six undergoing implant revision. The researchers found satisfactory overall functional results among 22 elbows at most recent follow-up, and mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 78 points, with 18 elbows graded as having an excellent or good result.
Mean extension-flexion arc improved from 65° preoperatively to 89° postoperatively, mean flexion improved from 113° to 126° and mean extension improved from 48° to 37°, according to the researchers.
Kaplan-Meier survivorship method showed a 96.4% total elbow arthroplasty survival from any revision at 5 years and a 79.9% survival at 10 years.
Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.