Paper #I-4

ARTHROSCOPIC RELEASE IS SAFE AND EFFECTIVE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ELBOW CONTRACTURE

Duong Nguyen, MD

London, ON

Purpose

To determine if arthroscopic release is safe and effective in the management of elbow contracture.

Methods

Twenty patients (mean age of 42) were retrospectively reviewed at a minimum follow-up of 1 year (mean 25 months). Most patients had combined extrinsic and intrinsic causes for contractures. Motion and strength were measured with standard goniometry and the LIDO isokinetic system by independent evaluators.

Results

Mean flexion significantly improved from 122 ± 16° to 137 ± 12° (p < 0.001). Mean extension significantly improved from 38 ± 18° to 18 ± 14° (p < 0.001). The mean arc improvement was 35 ± 21° (p < 0.001). Arthroscopic release did not affect forearm rotation or strength (p > 0.05). One patient developed a permanent medial antebrachial cutaneous neuroma and one patient required repeat surgery to remove a loose body. None of the patients had instability and there were no major neurovascular complications. All patients had improved elbow function with a mean ASES score of 31 out of 36. Most patients were satisfied with their surgery, had minimal pain, and had minimal impairment on the DASH.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic release is safe and effective. Results are comparable to other reports in the literature using both arthroscopic and open methods.