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Pediatric elbow arthroscopy: indications and safety
Steven M Andelman1, Kristen M Meier1, Amanda L Walsh1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mount Sinai Icahn School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery
|August 29, 2017
Summary
Pediatric elbow arthroscopy is safe and effective for various conditions like contractures and fractures. This minimally invasive procedure shows promise in younger patients, with evolving techniques and indications.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Elbow arthroscopy is a well-established treatment for adults.
- Limited data exists on its use in pediatric patients.
- This study evaluates indications and safety in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the indications for elbow arthroscopy in pediatric patients.
- To assess the safety and complication rates of elbow arthroscopy in children.
- To report on the outcomes of elbow arthroscopy in patients aged 18 and younger.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a single institution's surgical database (2001-2015).
- Analysis of 64 elbow arthroscopies in 59 patients aged 18 years and younger.
- Data collected included indications, complications, and further surgical interventions.
Main Results:
- Common indications: contracture release (45.3%), fracture fixation (20.3%), osteochondritis dissecans (20.3%).
- Overall complication rate was 17.2% (6.3% major, 10.9% minor).
- Average patient age was 11.8 years.
Conclusions:
- Elbow arthroscopy is a viable option for pediatric patients.
- The procedure demonstrates an acceptable safety profile in this population.
- Indications and techniques for pediatric elbow arthroscopy are advancing.
