Arthroscopic release for treatment of the limitation of elbow joint motion / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the indication, clinical results, and prognosis after arthroscopic release for treatment of the limitation of elbow joint motion. Methods From December 2003 to May 2005, 17 elbows in 17 patients were treated with an arthroscopic procedure for elbow contracture. All patients had trauma as the cause of limitation of elbow joint motion. Previous injuries included fixation after fracture of the olecranon (7 cases), elbow dislocation (5 cases), fracture of the radial head (2 case), and braking after skin graft for burn of elbow (2 cases), one patient underwent a open synovectomy for synovitis. All patients with elbow contractures underwent the arthroscopic capsular release and arthroscopic debridement. The osteophytes in the olecranon and medial or lateral epicondyle and loose bodies were removed, and full debridement of fibrous tissue in elbow were performed. Complete release of the capsule was necessary to regain good functional motion. Postoperative care began from gentle active and passive range of motion of the elbow under patient controlled analgesia(PCA). All elbows were assessed for increase in range of motion(ROM) and Mayo assessment before and after surgery. Score assessment: ≥90 points,excellent; 75-89 points, good; 60-74 points, fair;