Capitellocondylar total elbow replacement for rheumatoid arthritis.

In all, 23 capitellocondylar total elbow replacements were performed in 18 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Follow-up was for a mean (range) of 3 (1.5-5) years. Pain relief was achieved in all patients and the postoperative range of movement showed an improvement in all directions. No evidence of radiological loosening has been seen. Complications consisted of a transient ulnar nerve palsy in 15 elbows (65%) and a permanent ulnar nerve palsy in one elbow (4%). In two elbows there was delayed wound healing.