Total elbow replacement is reserved for severe rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and unfixable distal humerus fractures in elderly patients. Modern semi-constrained implants give excellent pain relief and 100° of useful motion.
Who needs elbow replacement?
Patients with severe rheumatoid arthritis, end-stage osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, or unreconstructable distal humerus fractures in elderly patients.
How is it performed?
A linked, semi-constrained implant with humeral and ulnar stems is cemented into place through a posterior approach. The procedure takes 90–120 minutes.
What to expect after surgery
Sling for 1–2 weeks, gentle motion immediately, no lifting more than 2–5 kg long-term to maximise implant life.
Pain relief is dramatic and 100° of functional motion is usually achieved.