Radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty: short-term to midterm results of 19 elbows

BackhroundsFew studies have discussed the short-term results of radiocapitellar (RC) prostheticarthroplasty (PA). In this study, we assessed the short-term to midterm functional andradiographic results of elbows after RC PA. Our secondary aim was to assess the survivalof the RC PA.MethodsWe included 19 elbows in 18 patients with a mean follow-up of 35 months (range, 88-12months). Patients were examined for instability and range of motion and were assessedusing Mayo Elbow Performance Index and Oxford Elbow Score at any subsequent visits. RCPA was the primary treatment in 16 elbows, and 3 were revision radial head arthroplastywith concomitant capitellar resurfacing.ResultsRange of motion, pain, and functional scores improved significantly from the preoperativeto the final follow-up visit. Categoric grouping of the final Mayo Elbow Performance Index outcome scores showed 9 excellent, 5 good, 3 fair, 0 poor, and 2 missing data. However,stability of the elbow remained unchanged. There was no pain in 11 patients, mild painin 5, and moderate pain in 3. Radiographic assessment showed no significant progress inulnohumeral arthritis, although 3 elbows showed osteoarthritis progression to a highergrade. There were no major complications, including infection, revision, disassembly of thecomponents, or conversion to total elbow arthroplasty. Survival of the RC PA was %100.ConclusionsElbow arthritis seems to become stationary after RC PA. Symptomatic RC osteoarthritiswould probably benefit from RC PA regardless of the etiology.