Background: Digastric olecranon osteotomy approach allows an excellent articular exposure and preserves principal vascular supply and the continuity of the extensor apparatus. The aim of this study was to assess the early clinical and radiological outcome after total elbow arthroplasty implanted from a digastric olecranon osteotomy approach.
Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 22 patients (two men and twenty women) treated with 24 Coonrad-Morrey® total elbow arthroplasty implanted from a digastric olecranon osteotomy approach in Island of France (Paris, Argenteuil and Saint-Denis). The mean age was 80 years (50-96). We treated 20 fractures; according to AO classification, seven patients suffered from a C1 fracture, seven from a C3 and C2, two from malunions, and four from rheumatoid arthritis. The mean time of follow-up was 30 months (6-132). Clinical outcomes were assessed with the Mayo elbow performance score. We evaluated triceps strength and radiographic healing.
Results: At the latest follow-up, the average flexion arc was 23° (5°-50°) to 112° (95°-130°). The Mayo elbow performance score averaged 92 points (75-100). The mean strength of the triceps in extension and flexion was, respectively, 1.9 and 4.7 kgs. All elbows were stable. A single immediate post-operative wound infection was reported and did not require any surgical revision. Radiological consolidation of the olecranon osteotomy was assessed in sixteen patients between 8 and 16 weeks. Heterotopic ossifications were noted in one elbow. One patient had an elbow dislocation by fracture of the axe's component.
Conclusion: The early clinical and radiological outcomes are promising and support the use of digastric olecranon osteotomy for the implantation of total elbow arthroplasty.
Level of evidence: Treatment study, level IV.
Keywords: Malunion fracture; Olecranon osteotomy; Rheumatoid arthritis; Supracondylar fracture; Total elbow arthroplasty.