Excision arthroplasty of the elbow joint: a follow-up study

Excision arthroplasty to mobilize ankylosed elbow joints was done in 38 cases. the anklosis was secondary to trauma, pyogenic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The surgical technique and after care are described and the complications are recorded. Follow-up results were analysed. The main reasons for failure and poor results were postoperative infection; partial and complete reankylosis; marked instability of the elbow joint and muscle weakness