Elbow Dislocations, Instability and Contracture-Early “Simple” Release of Post traumatic Elbow Contracture Associated With Heterotopic Ossification

Early “Simple” Release of Post traumatic Elbow Contracture Associated With Heterotopic Ossification

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The study investigated the outcomes of early excision of heterotopic ossification in patients with post-traumatic elbow stiffness. Fourteen patients, with a total of 15 elbows, were treated with early excision of heterotopic ossification, immediate postoperative mobilization, and a 5-day course of indomethacin. The average time from injury to release was 23 weeks. The study found that the average preoperative arc of flexion/extension was 43° while the pronation/supination was 79°. After 2 years, the corresponding values were 120° and 152°. Cubital tunnel syndrome, present in 5 patients, resolved after surgery. There were no recurrent contractures or loss of motion. The study concluded that early treatment with excision of heterotopic ossification can achieve good results without the need for delayed treatment or radiation therapy. The study also highlighted the high complication rate associated with post-traumatic elbow contracture release and the need for careful operative technique and postoperative rehabilitation.

Keywords

study

early excision

heterotopic ossification

post-traumatic elbow stiffness

patients

mobilization

indomethacin

preoperative arc

flexion/extension

pronation/supination