[Treatment of complex elbow injuries with the hinged fixation device DJD II. Technique and results]

Fractures and luxations with persistent instability of the elbow are severe injuries often followed by arthrofibrosis. The need for prolonged immobilization results in shortage of the ligaments and shrinking of the capsule. Treatment with dynamic hinged external fixation offers an option of protected early mobilization providing better results and avoiding stiffness and instability. In a retrospective study 22 patients with complex injuries of the elbow were evaluated with respect to the range of motion and subjective parameters (DASH score, DASH disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand).