Abstract:

Purpose Stiff elbow is a common upper extremity problem which can limit patients’ daily life activities. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of open arthrolysis for stiff elbow. Our hypothesis was that open arthrolysis would yield good functional results and patient satisfaction. Methods This retrospective study assessed 110 patients who underwent surgery for stiff elbow in a single institute between 2003-2012. Twenty-four of the patients who underwent open arthrolysis without heterotopic ossification excision and minimum followed up for 24 months were included in this study. All patient’s surgical procedure, ulnar nerve and radial head management, preoperative and postoperative ranges of elbow motion and complications were noted. Functional outcomes were evaluated with Quick-DASH and Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS). Results The mean age of the patients was 36.1 years at the time of open arthrolysis and mean follow-up period was 50.6 months. The mean preoperative flexion–extension arc increased form 52.4 to 96.5 and preoperative supination–pronation arc increased form 103.3 to 137.8 (p<0.05). The mean MEPS score was 81.6 and the Q-DASH score was 6.3. Complication occurred in 9 patients (37.5%) and 4 patients required additional surgery. Conclusion Open arthrolysis is an effective treatment method for stiff elbows, with reliable long-term functional outcomes. The complication rates are high; however, they are generally minor and temporary.

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