[Arthroscopic surgery for severe elbow osteoarthritis and ankylosis]

to investigate the clinical efficacy of arthroscopic debridement, shaping and soft tissue releasing in the treatment of severe elbow osteoarthritis and ankylosis.

arthroscopies were performed in 34 patients with severe elbow osteoarthritis. Among them, 13 were accompanied by ankylosis. In arthroscopic surgery, articular cavity was cleared. And loose bodies, osteophytes of coronoid process and olecranon of ulna were excised, the coracoid fossa and olecranon fossa shaped and joint capsules and collateral ligaments severely contracted properly released. Rehabilitation training was guided postoperatively. Arthralgia and range of motion of elbow were scored by Mayo's scoring criteria in contrast with that preoperatively.

the pain and range of motion (ROM) of elbow improved obviously in 34 patients. Angle of extension postoperatively increased by 30° ± 16° and angle of flexion increased by 34° ± 19°. Postoperative ROM of elbow show significant difference with the preoperative status (P < 0.01). According to the Mayo's scoring criteria, the excellent and good rate was 85.3%.

arthroscopic treatment of severe osteoarthritis and ankylosis of elbow is reliable. Trauma of arthroscopy is minimal and complications are rare.