Surgical Exposures for Total Elbow Arthroplasty. Issue 22 (15th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Horneff, John G.; Ramsey, Matthew L.
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Volume 27:Issue 22(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-11-15
• Subjects: Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Joint Diseases -- Periodicals; Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery; Orthopedics; Periodicals; 616.7005
• DOI: 10.5435/JAAOS-D-17-00916
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1067-151X

Abstract

Abstract : Indications for total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) were traditionally reserved for patients with advanced rheumatoid disease and posttraumatic conditions of the elbow. The indications have expanded for TEA to include patients with acute elbow trauma, dysfunctional instability, and end-stage osteoarthritis. Many of these patients are younger and place a greater demand on their TEA. This evolution of TEA use combined with the concern of soft tissue handling and triceps function has led to increased interest regarding surgical exposure for TEA. Three generalized approaches to TEA are predicated on the handling of the triceps tendon: triceps reflecting, triceps splitting, and triceps sparing. Each of these approaches has its own inherent advantages and disadvantages. As indications grow for TEA and the possibility of revision surgery increases with use in younger, higher demand patients, it is important for treating surgeons to use these various exposures so that they are capable of treating patients in a variety of settings.