Debridement Arthroplasty Through a Medial Approach for Primary Osteoarthritis of the Elbow

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To analyze the clinical results of debridement arthroplasty through a medial approach for primary osteoarthritis of the elbow. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten patients with primary osteoarthritis treated with debridement arthroplasty trough a medial approach were investigated. The ulnar nerve was transposed anteriorly in all patients. The mean duration of follow-up was 20.8 months. The clinical results were evaluated by measuring the preoperative and postoperative range of motion (ROM) of the elbow and using Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). RESULTS: The mean flexion contracture of the elbow joint was reduced from 23 degrees preoperatively to 10 degrees, postoperatively and the mean further flexion was improved from 93 degrees preoperatively to 131 degrees postoperatively. The mean MEPS improved from 55.3 points preoperatively to 86.9 points postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Debridement arthroplasty through a medial approach is considered as an useful method for primary osteoarthritis of the elbow.