[Simple elbow dislocation. Comparison of long-term results after immobilization and functional treatment]

From 1976 to 1985 the treatment used for simple dislocation of the elbow consisted in closed reduction and immobilization for about 3-4 weeks. Since 1985, simple dislocation of the elbow has been treated with closed reduction and immobilization for fewer than 3 days. A group treated by immobilization (20 patients) and a group that underwent functional treatment (24 patients) were both evaluated with regard to elbow motion, instability, isometric flexor and extensor strength of the forearm, and subjective (patient) judgement of the elbow function. An average of 8 +/- 5 years after the treatment 39 elbows were re-examined. In both groups, results were generally good, 22 patients having no residual symptoms or signs. However, 17 did have symptoms: 6 patients had a slight (loss of extension < 10 degrees, loss of flexion < 10 degrees) and 1 patient a moderate decrease in the range of motion (loss of extension > 10 degrees). Some instability was found in 5 patients and strength was slightly decreased in 9. The subjective judgement on their elbow function was very good in 22 patients. At follow-up, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups. The retrospective study, however, revealed that immobilization for 3-4 weeks more than doubled the time of after-treatment, the period of disability of the elbow, and the period of physical rehabilitation. Therefore, an accelerated functional treatment is recommended for the treatment of simple elbow dislocation: this is more effective, takes less time and is more economical.