Abstract
Background
More knowledge about the impact of elbow arthroplasty is needed.
Objectives
To describe pain and function in patients with elbow arthroplasty and to explore frequently used clinical- and patient-assessed measures for elbow function.
Methods
Pain and function [grip strength, range of motion (ROM)] were explored in a cross-sectional study of patients with elbow arthroplasty 1 year to 5 years after surgery. The properties of three outcome measures were assessed: the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (Quick-DASH); the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Elbow assessment form; and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score. For comparison, scales were transformed to 0 to 100. Correlations between measures and factors explaining patient-reported function (Quick-DASH) were explored.
Results
The study included 32 patients with a mean age of 68 years (75% females). Patients reported moderate level of pain (mean ± SD = 77), low arm function (Quick-DASH mean ± SD = 47), low grip strength (compared to norms) and limited ROM (flexion/extension arc less than 100°). Significant correlations with Quick-DASH were found for all measures (p < 0.01), except for ROM (p = 0.35). Grip strength contributed significantly (p = 0.03) to the variation in Quick-DASH, whereas ROM did not (p = 0.81).
Conclusion
Patients with elbow arthroplasty had moderate pain, but limited grip strength and ROM, 1 year to 5 years after surgery.
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