Surgical treatment of posttraumatic stiffness of the elbow: 2-year outcome in 21 patients after a column procedure

Abstract

Background and purpose Posttraumatic stiffness is a common complication of elbow injury and can result in considerable impairment in daily life. We assessed the outcome in 21 patients treated by a column procedure. Patients and methods We followed 21 patients (average age 40 (10–76) years, 11 women) for 2 years after surgery for a stiff elbow. Range of motion (ROM) and function (EFA score) were measured preoperatively and at 3,12, and 24 months postoperatively. Results Before surgery, the mean ROM was 69° (SD 24) and the mean EFA score was 74 (SD 13), which improved significantly to 104° (17) and 91 (6), respectively, after release. There were no significant differences between the postoperative measurements at 3,12, and 24 months. No neurovascular complications were noted; 2 patients developed periarticular ossifications postoperatively. Interpretation A column procedure results in an increase in motion and functional scores at 2-year follow-up. Outcome at 3 months after treatment is the same as after 2 years.