Clinical Report: Outcomes of Total Elbow Arthroplasty in Elderly Patients

Overview

This study evaluates the long-term outcomes and implant survival of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in elderly patients with distal humeral fractures. Results indicate promising functional outcomes and high implant longevity, with a 5-year survival rate of 94.2%.

Background

Distal humeral fractures in elderly patients pose significant treatment challenges due to poor bone quality and high complication rates. Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has emerged as a viable alternative for non-reconstructable fractures, offering advantages such as immediate stability and predictable pain relief. Understanding the outcomes of TEA in this population is crucial as the aging demographic continues to grow.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• TEA achieved good range of motion with flexion of 130 ± 8.16° and extension of 19.8 ± 11.4°.
• Functional outcomes included a VAS score of 3.3 ± 1.3 and a MEPS of 83.5 ± 7.3.
• The overall revision rate for TEA was 11%.
• Five-year implant survival rate was reported at 94.2%.
• Comorbidities did not significantly impact clinical outcomes.

Clinical Implications

TEA can be considered a reliable treatment option for elderly patients with complex distal humeral fractures, providing long-term functional benefits and acceptable complication rates. Clinicians should weigh the advantages of TEA against potential risks, particularly in patients with significant comorbidities.

Conclusion

Total elbow arthroplasty offers promising outcomes for elderly patients with distal humeral fractures, demonstrating high implant longevity and functional recovery. This supports its use as a primary treatment option in selected cases.

Related Resources & Content

1. Court-Brown C, Caesar B, Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, 2020 -- Outcomes of Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Distal Humerus Fractures in Patients Aged 70 and Older
2. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, 2024 -- Evaluating the Feasibility of Cementless Short Stem Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients Aged Over 75 Years
3. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, 2026 -- Mid- to long-term outcomes and survival of total hip arthroplasty using a Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement plate: an analysis of associated factors
4. Management of Acetabular Fractures in Older Adults, 2025 -- Outcomes of Acute Fixation and Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty Over Three Years in 70 Patients
5. Total elbow arthroplasty
6. Total Elbow Arthroplasty for Distal Humerus Fractures Outcomes and Complications: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
7. Total elbow arthroplasty vs. hemiarthroplasty for acute distal humeral fractures