Radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty: a report of 6 cases and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty has recently been introduced to treat isolated degenerative arthritis of the radiocapitellar joint. Although this procedure is conceptually attractive and sound in situations in which radial head resection is inadequate, clinical experience is still limited. Its role in the treatment of isolated radiocapitellar degenerative arthritis in the ligamentous-intact elbow and forearm is not yet defined. Our purpose was to report the short-term results of 6 patients who were treated by radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty for isolated radiocapitellar degenerative arthritis in the ligamentous-intact elbow, as well as to provide a review of the literature.

Methods: Six patients were treated by radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty for isolated degenerative arthritis of the radiocapitellar joint in the ligamentous-intact elbow. Their medical records were reviewed, and each patient was seen in the office. The mean follow-up period was 50 months (range, 30-64 months).

Results: The implant survival rate was 100%. Pain improved in all patients and all patients were satisfied. The mean flexion-extension arc increased from 98° (range, 75°-115°) to 110° (range, 105°-120°) (P = .17), and the mean pronation-supination arc increased from 133° (range, 75°-115°) to 143° (range, 120°-170°) (P = .34). The mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 24.3 (range, 6.7-52.5). According to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, there were 3 excellent and 3 good results.

Conclusion: The short-term follow-up results of radiocapitellar prosthetic arthroplasty for isolated radiocapitellar degenerative arthritis in the ligamentous-intact elbow and forearm seem favorable.

Level of evidence: Level IV, case series, treatment study.

Keywords: Prosthesis; arthritis; elbow; lateral compartment; replacement; terminology.