Elbow Uncemented Hemiarthroplasty: Surgical Technique

Abstract

Management of elbow arthritis in younger and higher demand patients is challenging and may benefit from a distal humerus hemiarthroplasty that employs a noncemented method of implant fixation and stabilizes the elbow through ligament reconstruction. By not replacing both articulating surfaces, hardware longevity may be improved. We describe a novel system that may be indicated for the treatment of posttraumatic or primary osteoarthritis of the distal humerus. The step-by-step technique for surgical implantation of this uncemented distal humerus hemiarthroplasty is described and illustrated.

Keywords

• Elbow arthritis
• Elbow hemiarthroplasty
• Elbow stability
• Ligament reconstruction
• Surgical technique