Clinical Research On Arthroscopic Elbow Arthrolysis With Stiff Elbow

ObjectiveTo observe the clinical outcome of arthroscopic elbow arthrolysis with stiff elbow.MethodsTotally 21 patients with stiff elbow received arthroscopic elbow arthrolysis from January 2008 to June 2009, and 19 were followed up. In the operation we cleaned the joint,removed the osteaphyte,released the joint capsular and ligment around the elbow joint. Analgesia and rehabilitation is necessary for post-operative patients. All elbows wre assessed for increase in rage of motion(ROM) and Mayo assessment before and post operation.ResultsThe patients were followed up for from 6 months to 9months(7.3months on average).The ROM of all the elbows treated by the arthroscopic arthrolysis increased.The mean maximum extension was 37°±11°before operation and 7°±5°post operation. The mean maximum flexion was 86°±12°before operation and 116°±17°post operation. There was a statistically significant difference between the ROM before operation and that post operation(P<0.01).Pre-operation Mayo assessment:good,2 patients;fair,11 patients;bad,6 patients.Post-operation Mayo assessment:exerllence,14 patients;good,5 No patients had complications.ConclusionsArthroscopic elbow arthrolysis appears to be a reliabletreatment for elbow stiff with minor trauma and quick recovery, significant improving function and less complications.