The stiff elbow.

Etiologies of elbow contractures can be classified into intrinsic versus extrinsic causes. Posttraumatic elbow stiffness is the most common intrinsic cause and HO formation is the most common extrinsic cause of elbow contractures. Patients who sustain significant elbow trauma and have one or more risk factors for HO formation should be given prophylaxis against HO formation in the form of either indomethacin or radiation therapy.

Safety and efficacy of the infraclavicular nerve block performed at low current.

It has recently been suggested that peripheral nerve or plexus blocks performed with the use of a nerve stimulator at low currents (<0.5 mA) may result in neurologic damage. We studied the infraclavicular nerve block, performed with the use of a nerve stimulator and an insulated needle, in a prospective evaluation of efficacy and safety.