Arthrolysis of the elbow joint in patients with heterotopic calcifications after burn injuries

Abstract

Heterotopic calcification of the elbow joint after burn trauma is a rare but dramatic complication, which may lead to extensive loss of range of motion or even ankylosis with severe functional (ADL) consequences without operative treatment. Between 1991 and 2000 we treated 761 patients in our intensive care unit for burn patients. 13 patients had severe heterotopic calcifications in 18 elbow joints (incidence 1.7%). Ankylosis with total loss of ROM was seen eleven times, the remaining ROM of the other seven joints was between 5° und 60°. Operative treatment took place in average of 15.7 months after burn trauma (range 6 months to 44 months). With a standardised operative excision of the heterotopic ossifications and arthrolysis as well as with a standardised postoperative therapy including continuous passive motion, we were able to achieve a long lasting result with a gain of an additional ROM of 92°.