Acute complex instability of the elbow treated with internal joint stabilizer IJS-E System

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Acute complex elbow fracture-dislocations present significant treatment challenges with high complication rates.
• The Internal Joint Stabilizer of the Elbow (IJSE) device offers a potential solution to improve surgical outcomes.
• Persistent elbow instability after surgical repair necessitates advanced stabilization techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of the IJS-E System in patients with persistent elbow instability.
• To assess functional recovery and complications associated with the IJS-E device.
• To determine the role of the IJS-E device as an alternative to external fixation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of five patients treated with the IJS-E System (Skeletal DynamicsR).
• Inclusion criteria: patients over 18 with persistent elbow instability post-osteoligamentous repair.
• Data collected on patient demographics, injury patterns, functional scores (MEP, DASH), range of motion, and complications.

Main Results:

• Five patients (4 males, 1 female, average age 37.4) with posterolateral instability (TTIE) were treated.
• Mean postoperative MEP score was 94, mean DASH score was 11.78, with an average follow-up of 9.8 months.
• Achieved mean arc of motion 134°, with good flexion and pronosupination, but a mean 12° extension deficit. One case each of heterotopic ossification and stiffness occurred; no device-related issues.

Conclusions:

• The IJS-E device is an effective alternative to external fixation for acute elbow instability.
• A 100% reoperation rate was observed, highlighting a significant drawback.
• Larger, prospective studies are required to fully establish the role and long-term efficacy of the IJS-E device.