Early "simple" release of posttraumatic elbow contracture associated with heterotopic ossification

"Simple" elbow release in the setting of heterotopic ossification is defined as excision of ectopic bone and removal of restricting soft tissues without associated articular procedures. In the past, such procedures were postponed until bone scans were quiescent, serum alkaline phosphatase was normal, and the ectopic bone was mature. Postoperative management sometimes included radiation therapy, prolonged nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and intensive physiotherapy. We believe that delayed treatment beyond the time of fracture healing is unnecessary to obtain results comparable to those of previous studies. Similarly, we propose that radiation therapy is not necessary after excision of heterotopic ossification. Fourteen patients (15 elbows) were prospectively managed with early excision of posttraumatic heterotopic ossification, immediate postoperative mobilization, and a 5-day course of indomethacin. The average time from injury to release was 23 weeks. The mean preoperative arc of flexion/extension was 43 degrees; that of pronation/supination was 79 degrees. After 2 years, the corresponding values were 120 degrees and 152 degrees. Cubital tunnel syndrome, present in 5 patients, resolved after surgery. Three postoperative complications occurred in 2 patients. There were no recurrent contractures or loss of motion.