Semiconstrained elbow prostheses with special reference to the GSB III prosthesis.
Fully constrained metal-to-metal elbow prostheses are not used anymore because of a high loosening rate. Today semiconstrained or condylar prostheses are the two possibilities when replacement of a destroyed elbow joint is considered. A careful analysis of the most recent publications in the world literature reveals a high complication rate for both types of prostheses, each one having specific advantages and disadvantages. The Gschwend-Scheier-Bähler (GSB) III prosthesis is a semiconstrained prosthesis, requires little bone resection, and is therefore easily salvaged. The results in regard to pain relief and improvement in range of motion are satisfactory in a high percentage of patients. The rate of lasting complications is lower than with most of the other prostheses. The authors' transtricipital approach is also a factor that contributes to the high success rate. In case of a failed arthroplasty the authors' method of reconstructing the humeral condyles allows a better salvage.
Gschwend
N
N
Klinik W. Schulthess, Zürich, Switzerland.
Loehr
J
J
Ivosevic-Radovanovic
D
D
Scheier
H
H
Munzinger
U
U
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000601:surgery; D001178:Arthroplasty / Q000379:methods; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007595:Joint Prosthesis; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D011859:Radiography