Abstract
This retrospective study examines the outcomes of 17 semi-constraint elbow replacement procedures done over 7 years.
There were 14 primary and three revision procedures. The mean age of patients was 61 years. The indication for surgery was RA in 11 patients, trauma in six and tuberculosis in one. All but two patients, who died of unrelated causes, were available for follow-up. In 13 patients the mean follow-up time was 4 years, and in the other two there was an 8-month follow-up. The results were assessed according to the Mayo Elbow Performance (MEP) score.
There were seven excellent MEP scores, seven good and one fair. Mean flexion was 132°, extension −23°, with the range of motion 107°. Except in two patients, pronation and supination were full. Radiographs showed two patients had radiolucent lines of more than 2 mm, which covered less than 50% of the interface. To date no revisions have been necessary.
Medium-term results of semi-constraint elbow replacements are gratifying.
Secretary: Dr H.J.S. Colyn, Editor: Professor M.B.E. Sweet. Correspondence should be addressed to SAOA, Box 47363, Parklands, Johannesburg, 2121, South Africa.
