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Release of the stiff elbow with mini-open technique
Kevin K Kruse1, Loukia K Papatheodorou1, Robert W Weiser1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedic Specialists-UPMC, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|March 2, 2016
Summary
A combined lateral and mini-open triceps-splitting approach effectively treats elbow contractures, significantly improving range of motion and reducing pain. This surgical technique offers a safe alternative for patients with elbow stiffness.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Upper Extremity Reconstruction
Background:
- Elbow contracture release lacks a universally accepted surgical technique.
- Various methods exist, but none have achieved widespread adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of a novel surgical approach for elbow contracture release.
- To assess a combined lateral-column and mini-open triceps-splitting technique.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-six patients with elbow contracture underwent the combined surgical approach.
- Key outcome measures included elbow range of motion, pain scores (visual analog scale), and functional assessment (Mayo Elbow Performance Score).
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in elbow range of motion (52° to 109°).
- Mean pain scores decreased substantially (7.59 to 0.44).
- The Mayo Elbow Performance Score showed a significant increase (44.17 to 90.83).
Conclusions:
- The combined lateral and mini-open triceps-splitting approach is a safe and effective treatment for elbow contractures.
- This technique offers a viable alternative for surgical management of elbow stiffness.