Clinical Results of Unlinked-type Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Stiff Elbows in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

OBJECTIVES

Total elbow arthroplasty is a common treatment for elbow stiffness due to rheumatoid arthritis. Although linked prostheses are often preferred, unlinked implants may reduce prosthetic stress and loosening risk. This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis presenting with stiff elbows.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 9 women with 10 stiff elbows due to rheumatoid arthritis who underwent primary total elbow arthroplasty using an unlinked implant. Stiffness was defined as a range of motion of less than 60°. Mean age was 58 years and mean follow-up was 59 months. Outcomes included range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, pain during movement assessed with a visual analogue scale, complications, and implant loosening.

RESULTS

Extension improved from -59° to -38°, flexion from 101° to 123° and arc of motion from 42° to 85°. Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 53 to 93, and pain score from 36 to 1. Two cases of transient ulnar neuropathy resolved without treatment. No implant loosening, dislocation, or revision surgery occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Unlinked total elbow arthroplasty improved clinical outcomes without major complications and may be a viable option for stiff elbows in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.