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Elbow arthrolysis in severely stiff elbows
Murat Kayalar1, Fuat Ozerkan, Emin Bal
1EMOT Hospital, Izmir, Turkey. elmikro2003@yahoo.com
Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery
|April 17, 2008
Summary
Open elbow arthrolysis effectively improved range of motion in patients with severe elbow contractures. This surgical intervention demonstrated significant gains in flexion and extension, with a low complication rate, supporting its use for stiff elbows.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Reconstructive surgery
- Elbow joint biomechanics
Background:
- Fixed joint contracture presents a significant challenge in elbow function.
- Open elbow arthrolysis is a surgical option for patients with severe joint stiffness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of open elbow arthrolysis in patients with fixed elbow contractures.
- To assess the improvement in range of motion and functional outcomes following the procedure.
Main Methods:
- Eighteen patients with varying degrees of elbow stiffness underwent open arthrolysis.
- Surgical approaches included lateral kocher, medial and lateral, transolecranon, and anterior/posterior approaches.
- Additional procedures like external fixation, fascia lata interposition, bone fixation/grafting, and nerve procedures were performed as needed.
Main Results:
- Mean extension deficit improved from 55 to 32 degrees.
- Mean end flexion increased from 81 to 124 degrees.
- Two patients (11%) experienced postoperative infection.
Conclusions:
- Open elbow arthrolysis is effective for improving range of motion in severe stiff elbows without muscle atrophy.
- The procedure can restore ligamentous stability and function in the elbow joint.
- Sequential arthrolysis is suggested for optimal outcomes in severe cases.
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