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Resection arthroplasty seen as effective in treating infection after total elbow arthroplasty
Infection after total elbow arthroplasty among low-demand patients was effectively treated using resection arthroplasty, according to results.
“Resection arthroplasty can be an acceptable salvage treatment for infection after TEA for low-demand patients,” the researchers wrote. “To achieve success, both columns of the distal humerus must be preserved at implant removal.”
Researchers assigned nine patients (10 elbows) who underwent resection arthroplasty for treatment of infection after total elbow arthroplasty into one of the following groups based on the patients’ remaining distal humerus bone stock: a lateral column group; a medial column group; and a both columns group. The patients had a mean follow-up of 52.4 months.
Yong Girl Rhee
Following resection, results showed an average time of 6.8 days to resolution of symptoms of clinical infection and an average of 68.5 days to normalization of serologic marker levels. Researchers noted the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score changed from 50 preoperatively to 73.5 at last follow-up, and DASH scores changed from 46.5 preoperatively to 53 at final follow-up.
Although the both column group experienced better functional outcomes compared with the lateral or medial column group, this findings was statistically insignificant, according to results. At final follow-up, researchers noted a mean satisfaction score of 70, with just one case requiring additional surgeries to treat recurrent infection. Overall, results showed no refractory infection, fractures or permanent nerve lesions. – by Casey Tingle
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.