Mid-term results of the Latitude primary total elbow arthroplasty.

Abstract Background The Latitude total elbow prosthesis is a third-generation implant, developed to restore the natural anatomy of the elbow. Literature on this prosthesis is scarce. Aim of this study is to analyze the mid-term results of the Latitude total elbow prosthesis. Methods Sixty-two patients (21M, 41F) were retrospectively evaluated. Mean age at surgery was 65 years (range 28-87). Main indication for surgery was inflammatory arthritis. Outcome measures were complications and re-operations, self-reported physical functioning, pain, satisfaction, objectively measured physical functioning, and radiological signs of loosening. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to determine survival with revision as an endpoint. Results Sixty-nine primary Latitudes were placed in 62 patients between 2008 and 2019. Six patients (seven prostheses) died, three elbows were revised, and nine patients were lost to follow-up. Forty-four patients (50 prostheses) were available for follow-up. Mean follow-up was 51 months (range 10-144). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a survival rate of 82% at 10 years after surgery. Main reason for revision was aseptic loosening. Radial head dissociation was seen in eight patients (24%), but none of them had complaints. Self-reported and objectively measured physical functioning yielded good results, although 23 patients (46%) did show radiolucent lines on radiographs. Conclusion Latitude TEA is considered a successful procedure with low pain scores, high patient satisfaction, and good physical functioning. Survival rates nonetheless remain low and complication rates high, yet comparable to other elbow arthroplasties. We recommend biomechanical studies to concentrate on specific postoperative loading instructions in order to minimize wear and consequent loosening.