Instability after total elbow arthroplasty.

Instability has limited the indications and appeal of unlinked (unconstrained, surfacing replacing) total elbow arthroplasties. True dislocation occurs in fewer than 5% of patients and may be less common when careful operative technique ensures appropriate tensioning of the medial collateral ligament, secure repair of the lateral collateral ligament, and preservation of the anterior capsule and triceps. Conversion of an unstable unlinked total elbow arthroplasty to a linked total elbow arthroplasty can be a complex and difficult procedure, but usually salvages a functional elbow.