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Surgical approaches to the elbow.
S D Patterson1, G I Bain, J A Mehta
1Bond Clinic, PA, Winter Haven, FL 33880-3094, USA.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|February 8, 2000
Summary
Recent advancements provide surgeons with improved elbow surgical approaches, enabling most procedures via a single posterior midline incision. This technique minimizes complications and allows for immediate post-operative elbow motion.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Growing interest in elbow surgery necessitates refined surgical techniques.
- Existing approaches may be numerous and less efficient.
- Need for minimally invasive yet comprehensive elbow access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To consolidate and refine surgical approaches for the elbow.
- To evaluate a streamlined approach utilizing a single skin incision.
- To assess the efficacy and outcomes of this consolidated technique.
Main Methods:
- Review and modification of existing surgical approaches for the elbow.
- Development of a technique utilizing deep intermuscular and internervous planes.
- Application of a single, straight posterior midline incision for circumferential exposure.
Main Results:
- A reduced, more effective list of surgical approaches has been identified.
- The posterior midline incision allows for complete elbow exposure.
- Associated with decreased wound complications and enables immediate active motion.
Conclusions:
- A refined set of elbow surgical approaches offers significant advantages.
- Single-incision techniques improve surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.
- This approach facilitates faster recovery and restoration of elbow function.