Extended Kocher Approach for Total Elbow Arthroplasty

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Total elbow arthroplasty is most commonly performed through a posterior approach by splitting or reflecting the triceps off the olecranon, but triceps avulsion, triceps weakness, and wound healing problems have been reported. We present the clinical results of total elbow arthroplasty using extended Kocher approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: From September 2005 to October 2007, five patients who underwent total elbow arthroplasty using triceps preserving approach were evaluated. There were 4 women and 1 man. The mean age of the patients was 58 years (range, 36~68). The mean follow- up was 10 months. The patients were placed in the lateral decubitus position, and lateral Kocher interval is made through a straight posterior incision. Elbow joint is exposed by supinating the forearm and prosthesis was inserted. Postoperatively, the elbow was immobilized in extension for 1 week, and active range of motion exercise was begun. Range of motion, triceps strength, Mayo elbow performance score, Korean DASH questionnaire were evaluated at the last follow-up. RESULTS: Average operation time was 115 minutes (range, 97~138). Postoperative complications such infection, skin necrosis were not developed. Triceps strength was measured as grade IV in all patients except one who has triceps insufficiency preoperatively. Mean elbow range of motion was from 8 degrees to 124 degrees. Mean Mayo elbow performance score was 87 (range 75~95), and DASH score was 18 (range 9~34). CONCLUSIONS: Extended Kocher approach can be a reasonable alternative for total elbow arthroplasty. Linking the assembly can be difficult, so modification of the implant design is needed to solve this problem.