Open arthrolysis with pie-crusting release of the triceps tendon for treating post-traumatic contracture of the elbow.

Background: Extensive loss of elbow flexion compromises the performance of daily activities. We examined the clinical outcomes of patients with post-traumatic extension contracture of the elbow treated with open arthrolysis and pie-crusting release of the triceps tendon.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the records of 7 patients (5 men and 2 women; mean age, 35 years) who underwent open arthrolysis via a combined lateral and medial approach with pie-crusting release of the triceps tendon for the treatment of post-traumatic elbow stiffness.

The time point in surgical excision of heterotopic ossification of post-traumatic stiff elbow: recommendation for early excision followed by early exercise.

Background: Post-traumatic heterotopic ossification (HO) around the elbow may severely impair joint function. Although surgical excision is effective at restoring range of motion (ROM), traditional surgical treatment is postponed for at least 1 year to prevent recurrence, which leads to secondary contracture of the elbow. Because the optimal timing of resection is controversial, our study was performed to compare recurrence and elbow function between early and late excision in our patients to determine whether the delay is necessary.

Arthrolysis and delayed internal fixation combined with hinged external fixation for elbow stiffness associated with malunion or nonunion of capitellum fracture.

Background: This study assessed outcomes after treatment of patients with capitellum fracture diagnosed >4 weeks after the trauma (delayed) who presented with stiff elbow.

Methods: We reviewed 7 patients with stiff elbows after delayed diagnosis of capitellum fractures between February 2007 and February 2012. They were treated with arthrolysis by twin incisions, late open reduction and internal fixation, and a hinged external fixator.

Comparative study of radial head resection and prosthetic replacement in surgical release of stiff elbows.

Purpose: Elbow trauma can compromise the arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation. This study aimed at comparing the outcomes of radial head resection and prosthetic replacement in the surgical release of post traumatic elbow stiffness and associated restriction in forearm rotation.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent open arthrolysis with radial head resection (n = 15; resection group) or radial head replacement (n = 19; replacement group).

Effect of cryotherapy after elbow arthrolysis: a prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled study.

Objective: To investigate the effect of cryotherapy after elbow arthrolysis on elbow pain, blood loss, analgesic consumption, range of motion, and long-term elbow function.

Design: Prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled study.

Setting: University hospital.