Total Elbow Arthroplasty in an Older Patient with a Forearm Amputation: A Case Report in a Spastic Elbow

INTRODUCTION: Total elbow arthroplasty is a common procedure in older patients after comminuted distal humerus fractures. However, in patients with a forearm amputation, this treatment indication is less obvious. CASE REPORT: We report the case of an older spastic patient with bilateral forearm amputation for whom we performed a total elbow arthroplasty for a complex left distal humerus fracture. At 1 year follow-up, our patient was satisfied with the outcome as she had recovered her previous range motion and autonomy. There was no sign of implant loosening or migration on radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: Given that this treatment has the same benefits as in the typical target population and that any complications that may occur could be less devastating in a patient with forearm amputation. We think that elbow arthroplasty should be offered, in case of complex articular fracture, to all older patients with forearm amputation who has functional demands.