Arthrolysis for post-traumatic stiffness of the elbow

Twelve of 14 patients who underwent arthrolysis of the elbow for post-traumatic stiffness were re-examined after a mean of 62 months. Pain and subjective stiffness were improved. The mean function of the elbow improved from 73 degrees to 112 degrees. Those operated on within a year of their injury improved twice as much as those who had been operated on after a longer period. Arthrolysis may be very rewarding when conservative treatment fails, especially when it is carried out within a year of the injury.