Manipulation under anesthesia for the postsurgical stiff elbow: a case series and review of literature

The examination and treatment of soft tissue contracture of the elbow

Treatment of the stiff elbow can be a challenging task. A thorough understanding of normal elbow anatomy and the potential causes of elbow contracture are essential for the development of effective treatment strategies. This chapter provides a review of key points for the treating surgeon including normal elbow anatomy, etiological factors that commonly contribute to elbow stiffness, physical examination and imaging of the stiff elbow, and treatment options for contracture correction.

Complications in Elbow Arthroscopy: Management and Prevention

With advances in the understanding of elbow anatomy, pathologies of the elbow, arthroscopic instrumentation, and surgical techniques over recent decades, elbow arthroscopy has become a valuable treatment modality for a variety of conditions. Elbow arthroscopy has gained utility for treating problems such as septic arthritis, osteoarthritis, synovitis, osteophyte and loose body excision, contracture release, osteochondral defects, select fractures, instability, and lateral epicondylitis. Accordingly, precise knowledge of the neurovascular anatomy, safe arthroscopic portal placement, indications, and potential complications are required to maximize patient outcomes and assist in educating patients. This comprehensive review provides the reader an understanding of the potential complications associated with arthroscopic procedures of the elbow and to describe strategies for prevention and management.

Radial head excision and Achilles allograft interposition arthroplasty for the treatment of chronic pediatric radiocapitellar pathologies: A report of four cases

BACKGROUND

Severe radiocapitellar pathologies represent a unique problem in the pediatric population, as radial head excision can lead to substantial long-term complications. We present a case series of four pediatric patients treated by a novel technique-radial head excision followed by Achilles allograft interposition arthroplasty.

METHODS

Four children (ages 12-15 years) are described. Their clinical and radiographic outcomes were assessed by a visual analog scale, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, grip strength, and range of motion.

RESULTS

At a mean follow-up of two years, the average flexion-extension arc of motion improved from 107° to 131°, and the rotation arc improved from 100° to 154°. The average visual analog scale, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were 2, 92.5, and 11.5, respectively. Two patients required subsequent additional procedures-manipulation under anesthesia and ulnar shortening osteotomy. Proximal migration of the radius was observed in three out of the four patients.

DISCUSSION

Combined radial head excision and Achilles allograft interposition arthroplasty represents a viable option for the treatment of chronic pediatric radiocapitellar pathologies, with good results in terms of clinical and functional outcomes as well as patient satisfaction in the short-medium term.