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[Open arthrolysis of posttraumatic elbow stiffness]
1Klinik für Unfall- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Katharinenhospital Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany. k.kolb@katharinenhospital.de
Der Unfallchirurg
|April 30, 2008
Summary
Open arthrolysis effectively treats severe posttraumatic elbow stiffness, improving functional mobility. This surgical intervention for elbow stiffness yields good outcomes for most patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- The incidence and outcomes of severe posttraumatic elbow stiffness are not well-defined.
- Elbow stiffness can result from intraarticular, extraarticular, or combined causes.
- Open surgical procedures are indicated for elbow stiffness unresponsive to conservative management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of open arthrolysis for severe posttraumatic elbow stiffness.
- To assess functional outcomes and mobility improvements following surgical intervention.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 35 patients underwent open arthrolysis between March 1995 and November 2001.
- Procedures were performed 10 months (range 3-24 months) post-trauma.
- Patient demographics included 24 men and 11 women, with fractures of the distal humerus, radius head/neck, or proximal ulna.
Main Results:
- Using the Cauchoix and Deburge score, 73% of patients achieved excellent or good results.
- The Mayo Elbow Performance Score indicated excellent or good results in 71% of patients.
- Mean follow-up was 21.5 months, demonstrating significant functional improvement.
Conclusions:
- Open arthrolysis is an effective treatment for severe posttraumatic elbow stiffness.
- The procedure leads to substantial improvements in functional mobility and range of motion.
- Timely surgical intervention, approximately 10 months post-trauma, yields favorable outcomes.