Objective: To investigate the clinical outcome of debridement arthroplasty using medial approach for the osteoarthritis of the elbows.

Methods: 40 elbows in 36 patients with osteoarthritis of the elbow were reviewed retrospectively. All of the patients were men and the mean age at the time of surgery was 60.0 years. The mean duration of follow-up was 35 months. All elbows were managed operatively with debridement arthroplasty. This procedure consisted of removal of free bodies, resection of inflammatory synovia, and resection of osteophytes. Medial approach with medial epicondylectomy was applied for all cases. In 10 elbows, posterior approach was used additionally for the debridement of posterior compartment.

Results: 23 elbows (57.5 %) had an excellent result, 11 elbows (27.5 %) had a good result, and six (15 %) had a fair result. 10 elbows (25%) had complete relief of pain while the other 30 elbows (75 %) had partial relief. Remaining pain was mostly located at the lateral aspect in patients with severe radiohumral arthritis. Flexion was improved from 106.5 degrees to 121.5 degrees.

Conclusion: This procedure is effective for patients with osteoarthritis of the elbow which is localized in ulnohumeral joint. Total elbow arthroplasty must be considered for the severe radiohumeral arthritis. Careful selection of patients is essential for successful outcome.