Functional Outcomes Following Interposition Elbow Arthroplasty Using Fascia Lata Graft for Post-Traumatic Elbow Osteoarthritis Without Ligament Reconstruction: A Minimum 3-Year Follow-Up Study

Purpose

Elbow osteoarthritis is a debilitating disease for patients. Surgical options are to be considered when conservative management becomes unsatisfactory. Total elbow arthroplasty is an effective surgical option for patients older than 65 years and those with a sedentary lifestyle. Meanwhile, interposition elbow arthroplasty is suitable for young, high-demand patients. The retrospective study aimed to evaluate the surgical outcomes of interposition elbow arthroplasty for elbow osteoarthritis.

Methods

Eight patients who underwent interposition elbow arthroplasty from 2018 to 2020 in our center were retrospectively reviewed. Interposition elbow arthroplasty was performed using fascia lata autografts. Mayo elbow performance score; disability of arm, shoulder, and hand scores; and range of motion were evaluated and compared with that of the preoperative state.

Results

The mean Mayo elbow performance score significantly improved from 53.7 ± 14.6 (before surgery) to 85.6 ± 12.1 (after surgery). The mean disability of arm, shoulder, and hand score also significantly improved from 93.1 ± 11.8 (before surgery) to 57.5 ± 15.9 (after surgery). The mean arc of motion increased by 85.8°, from a mean before surgery value of 6.2° ± 5.8° to 92.0° ± 34.0° after surgery. Satisfaction rate was 92.5%.

Conclusions

Interposition elbow arthroplasty is a nonprosthetic reconstruction that respects the joint and does not burn any bridge for further total elbow arthroplasty if needed. It provides favorable surgical outcomes with high satisfaction rates among young patients with elbow osteoarthritis.

Type of study/level of evidence

Therapeutic IV.