The triceps-preserving approach for semiconstrained total elbow arthroplasty

Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is a useful tool to relieve pain and provide return to function for many conditions affecting the elbow. For conditions ranging from inflammatory arthropathies to comminuted intra-articular distal humeral fractures in the elderly, TEA is an excellent treatment alternative. Numerous surgical approaches for TEA have been described. Most surgeons use either a direct posterior or posterior-lateral incision. TEA is not without its complications. One such complication is insufficiency of the triceps. Many surgical approaches have been described to try to decrease the possibility of triceps insufficiency. In this article, we describe a new technique not previously described in which, using a posterior incision, the triceps is only dissected from the medial side. With this technique, the tendon insertion on the olecranon, as well as the entire lateral soft-tissue envelope of the elbow, is left undisturbed.