The elbow is a complex joint that functions not only as a hinge, but also as a place where rotational movements occur that allow the wrist and hand to be placed in certain positions (such as turning the palm of the hand up and down).

There are some diseases that can lead to the destruction of the articular surface of the bones that make up the elbow (humerus, radius and ulna), the most common being rheumatoid arthritis. Other rheumatological and degenerative diseases can also involve the elbow and cause pain and limitation of normal activities. In these cases, when symptoms, such as inability to fully straighten and bend the elbow and severe pain in the range of motion, affect quality of life, replacing the articular surface with a prosthesis can improve function and well-being.

Fractures around the elbow can cause significant joint destruction, especially those of the distal humerus (the lower portion), making anatomical reconstruction difficult. In these cases, depending on the level of activity and the remaining bone quality, elbow arthroplasty may be an option that more effectively restores function closer to the original. Elbow prostheses may also be beneficial in cases of after-effects following elbow trauma, in which pain and reduced mobility persist.