Souter-Strathclyde arthroplasty of the rheumatoid elbow: 23 cases followed for 3 years

Twenty-three elbows in 17 rheumatoid arthritis patients have undergone unconstrained Souter-Strathclyde elbow replacements since March 1984. One patient developed a deep-wound infection, and 4 others had a temporary ulnar nerve paresis. At follow-up 3 (0.5-6) years postoperatively, there was a moderate improvement in the arc of movements: 25° in extension-flexion and 45° in forearm rotation. Pain relief was achieved in 20 cases. Three elbows required revision, two following recurrent dislocation and the other after a humeral fracture and component loosening.