There are three broad categories of elbow joint prostheses in common clinical use: 1. Surface replacement prostheses, represented by the Ewald small head condyle prosthesis, whose center of rotation remains in the physiological position. However, it is required to retain the normal epiphysis and lateral collateral ligaments. 2.Semi-constrained prosthesis, consisting of two or three parts, connected together by fixation pins or occlusal matching, with moderate inward and outward laxity, which is conducive to force cushioning. 3, full constrained prosthesis, stranded, only able to flexion and extension movement, no lateral laxity. The smaller the constraint of the prosthesis, the closer to the physiological movement of the joint, the easier it is to maintain the long-term stability of the prosthesis. Except for cases where the soft tissue around the joint is severely damaged and must rely on the prosthesis itself to maintain stability, the use of fully constrained prosthesis should be avoided. (1) Severe pain in the elbow joint is the main indication for artificial elbow joint replacement. (2) Bilateral non-functional ankylosis of the elbow joint. (3) Partial bone loss of the elbow joint due to tumor, trauma, or infection. Surgery should only be considered after at least one year of complete stabilization in patients with infection. (4) Failed arthroplasty. (5) Weakness and discomfort caused by instability of the elbow joint are relative indications for surgery. 2. Contraindications to surgery: (1) Infection. (2) Neuropathic arthropathy. (3) Large defective or unstable bone tissue of the elbow caused by various reasons. (4) Paralysis of the major motor muscles of the elbow without reconstruction. (5) Malnutrition. (6) Extensive skin ingrowth of the elbow (7) Ectopic ossification of the elbow. (8)Severe osteoporosis and estimated difficulty in maintaining the prosthesis after surgery.