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Improved function and pain relief found following total elbow arthroplasty in young patients
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Significant improvements in function and pain relief were found at long-term follow-up in young patients who underwent total elbow arthroplasty using a semiconstrained cemented device, according to study results.
Researchers retrospectively reviewed 23 elbows in 21 patients aged 40 years or younger who underwent total elbow arthroplasty between September 1994 and May 2007. The mean follow-up was 129 months.
Results showed a decrease in pain during motion with a mean VAS score of approximately 5.8 preoperatively to a postoperative score of approximately 1.6, and an increase in the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score from approximately 32 points preoperatively to approximately 81.1 points postoperatively. Patient satisfaction on a 100-point scale was about 83.5 points. At the time of latest follow-up, mean flexion-extension arc in the post-traumatic arthritis group increased from approximately 37.8° preoperatively to 120.6° postoperatively, according to study results. Among the non-traumatic arthritis group, researchers also found an increase in mean flexion-extension arc from approximately 24.3° preoperatively to approximately 96.4° postoperatively.
Results showed a loosening rate of 13%, and researchers observed a middle-to-moderate bushing wear in 17% of elbows. Overall, implant survival rates were 95% at the 8-year follow-up and 89% at the 15-year follow-up, with 22% of elbows undergoing a revision surgical procedure. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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