The Guildford elbow joint.

The Guildford Elbow Joint prosthesis uses a non-rigid hinge articulation combined with intra-medullary stems to replace the humero-ulnar joint. The metal-on-plastic articulating surfaces are designed to allow some subluxation and accessory movements while remaining self-centering and stable under load. The intra-medullary stems are shaped to provide a good fit in the curves shafts of the ulna and humerus and should provide good fixation without the removal of large amounts of bone. The prosthesis is fixed with acrylic cement. The design follows, where possible, the normal anatomy and function of the elbow. A correct operative technique is important, but the procedure shows no particular difficulties.