Arthrolysis in the relief of post-traumatic stiffness of the elbow

A retrospective clinical study of 34 patients treated by arthrolysis for elbow stiffness is presented. These patients had sustained previous injury which was a simple fracture in 44%. The average age at operation was 31 years with a range from 6 to 57 years. Follow up for a minimum of one year, and an average of four years, showed an increase of motion from a preoperative average of 45 degrees to a postoperative average of 92 degrees with few complications and only three unsatisfactory results. This analysis has allowed conclusions concerning the technique and indications for operation.