Extensive posterior exposure of the elbow. A triceps-sparing approach.

TLDR

Triceps avulsion or loss after total elbow arthroplasty has driven the creation of a modified posterior approach to the elbow. The technique preserves the triceps by reflecting it from medial to lateral (or vice versa) in continuity with the forearm fascia, olecranon, and ulnar periosteum, with optional ulnar collateral ligament release and reattachment for greater exposure. In 49 consecutive total elbow arthroplasties, the approach maintained triceps function and strength and proved effective for distal humerus intra‑articular fractures and rheumatoid synovectomy.

Abstract

Difficulty with triceps avulsion or loss of continuity after total elbow arthroplasty has prompted the development of a modified posterior approach to the elbow joint. The characteristic feature of this approach is that the triceps mechanism is reflected from medial to lateral in continuity with the forearm fascia and the olecranon and ulnar periosteum. A variant of the technique reflects the extensor mechanism from lateral to medial. The ulnar collateral ligament may be released from the humerus to provide more exposure, but the ligament must then be securely reattached. This approach, which provides extensive exposure to the elbow joint, has been employed in 49 consecutive total elbow arthroplasties and results show no loss of triceps function and no significant weakness. The approach has proved useful for treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal end of the humerus and with synovectomy in the rheumatoid arthritic patient.