Abstract

LIMA, Ana Sofia et al. Artroplastia total do cotovelo. Rev. Port. Ortop. Traum. [online]. 2018, vol.26, n.3, pp.191-200. ISSN 1646-2122.

Objective: To describe clinical, radiographic and functional results of total elbow arthroplasties (TEA), as well as their complications, and to compare them with published literature. Materials and Methods: Retrospective study of TEA cases over a period of 10 years (2006 to 2016). Demographic data collected included age, gender, primary pathology, type of TEA (primary or revision), date of primary surgery, surgical side, date and cause of reoperations and isolated microorganisms in infections. Clinical outcomes comprised range of motion, functional outcome and overall complications. Functional outcomes were assessed by means of the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH). Results: 25 patients (26 TEAs) were included in this study, 20 females and 6 males. Mean age at the time of primary surgery was 56 years old. Indications for TEA were primary osteoarthritis (29%), secondary osteoarthritis (63%), distal humerus fracture (4%) and fracture nonunion (4%). Complications included infection (15%), aseptic loosening (12%), mechanical failure (12%), instability (12%), polyethylene wear (4%), ulnar neuropathy (15%), triceps insufficiency (4%), calcifications (8%) and intra-operative fractures (8%). A Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 67% of the cases of infection. Mean MEPS score was 71 and mean DASH score was 60. Conclusions: Most of our results are in agreement with published literature. Most patients who undergo a TEA experience substantial functional improvement and significant pain relief, and many are able to resume activities of daily living.

Keywords : Elbow; total arthroplasty; infection; aseptic loosening.

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