Composite Vascularized Autograft Elbow Transplant: A Case Report. Issue 3 (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pathak, Neil; Sides, Eric E.; Piper, Samantha L.; Lee, Charles K.; Hansen, Scott L.; Terry, Michael J.; Lattanza, Lisa L.
• Is Part Of: JBJS case connector. Volume 11:Issue 3(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: middle age -- male -- total elbow arthroplasty -- autograft -- elbow transplant -- elbow dislocation -- motor vehicle collision; Orthopedic surgery -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Orthopedic surgery -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedic Procedures; Orthopedic surgery; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.21.00220
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2160-3251

Abstract

Abstract : Case: A 37-year-old man presented with an absent right elbow joint secondary to trauma, subsequent ankylosis, total elbow arthroplasty (TEA), and TEA explantation after infection. The patient also had a contralateral complete brachial plexus injury, but an intact elbow joint. Given that the patient had a functional right hand/wrist, composite vascularized autograft elbow transplant was performed from left to right upper extremity. Four years postoperatively, the patient could independently complete activities of daily living. Conclusion: This case is the first to report composite vascularized autograft elbow transplant. Although indications are limited, this case illuminates novel uses of standard techniques for a difficult problem.