Long-term results of elbow arthroscopy in 67 patients

Based on the results of a retrospective study of 67 patients with diagnostic and surgical arthroscopy of the elbow from 1977 until 1991, we present our technique, results, complications, and indications for elbow arthroscopy. The average age of the patients was 26 years (range: 11-59). At the time of follow-up the patients were examined clinically as well as radiologically. The results were scored according to Figgie's score, which is based on the criteria of pain, function, power and range of motion. The overall score significantly increased from 61.6 preoperatively to 85.3 postoperatively. The age of the patient did not influence the results. However, patients who were laborers had a poorer outcome than the others. Patients with preoperative pain for 2 months to two 2 years had better results than patients with a preoperative course of more than 2 years.