Total elbow arthroplasty in haemophilia

Introduction: Advanced haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow can be a devastating manifestation of severe haemophilia with significant implications for activities of daily living. Aim: To summarize the currently available data on total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) for haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow, to draw comparisons to TEA for other indications, and to outline some considerations regarding TEA in this unique population. Methods: A narrative review of the literature has been performed. Results: The scant data regarding outcomes of TEA for haemophilic arthropathy are limited to small case series and case reports. A review of the available literature shows that, while pain relief and patient satisfaction are promising, variable outcomes with significant complications and infection rates may discourage routine use of TEA for haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow. Conclusion: While patients with severe haemophilic arthropathy of the elbow are likely to make gains in terms of pain control and range of motion following TEA, there are insufficient data to routinely recommend its use. Complication and infection rates are concerning, and the lack of survival analysis data makes it difficult to quantify the benefit to the patient in light of the risks and resources involved in the procedure.