Open arthrolysis and prosthetic replacement of the radial head for elbow stiffness associated with rotation limitation.
BACKGROUND
Limited forearm rotation is a frequent combined disorder in elbow stiffness. If the radial head cannot be saved during open arthrolysis, prosthetic replacement might be considered because it enhances stability and allows early motion.


METHODS
In this study we retrospectively analyzed the outcome of 8 patients (7 men, 1 woman) who underwent open arthrolysis and simultaneous prosthetic replacement after resection of the radial head to restore elbow range of motion and forearm rotation. Patients were a mean age of 31.7 years (range, 22-40 years).


RESULTS
Postoperatively, the mean (range) active range of motion improved from 29.4° (0°-70°) to 113.1° (80°-135°), mean (range) supination increased from 38.8° (0°-80°) to 77.5° (50°-90°), and mean (range) pronation improved from 18.8° (0°-80°) to 68.8° (50°-80°). The Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from a mean (range) of 57.5 (50-70) to 92.5 (85-100) points. No elbow valgus instability was detected over a mean duration of 26 months of follow-up. The implant was considered stable in all patients.


CONCLUSIONS
Open arthrolysis and prosthetic replacement of the radial head are effective in treating elbow stiffness with associated rotation limitation after resection of the radial head.
Department of Orthopaedics, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.
Shen
S
Liu
Jun-jian
JJ
Liu
Xu-jun
XJ
Li
Hong-jiang
HJ
Ruan
Cun-yi
CY
Fan
D000328:Adult; D019643:Arthroplasty, Replacement; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D005542:Forearm; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011884:Radius / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012399:Rotation; D055815:Young Adult; D000092464:Elbow Injuries