Postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score Research Articles

Long-term outcomes of Kudo type-5 unlinked surface-replacing total elbow arthroplasty for rheumatoid arthritis: a 15-year average follow-up study

Total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) has been used for various conditions including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While the Kudo TEA has been associated with favorable short-term outcomes, there is limited information on the longer term outcomes of this device. The aim of this study was to investigate the average 15-year outcome of Kudo type-5 TEA in patients with RA. For this retrospective cohort study, we reviewed 29 elbows in 28 patients (Larsen grade III, n=8; IV, n=19; V, n=2) with RA who underwent Kudo type-5 TEA between 1999 and 2010. The patients were followed up for a mean of 15 (range: 10-21) years. We investigated the survival with setting revision/removal as the endpoints. The risk factors for revision/loosening were assessed. There was a significant improvement in elbow flexion after Kudo TEA. Preoperative and postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved significantly from 60.3 to 94.7. Complications included intraoperative medial humeral epicondyle fracture (n=2), postoperative dislocations (n=4), deep infections (n=1), and persistent ulnar nerve neuropathy (n=1). Aseptic loosening was observed in 7 elbows (24.1%; humerus, n=3; ulna, n=3; both sides, n=1). The causes of the 5 revisions were postoperative dislocation (n=1), deep infection (n=1), aseptic loosening of the humerus (n=2), and aseptic loosening of the ulna (n=1). All 5 elbows underwent revision of the ulnar component (n=2) or the linked TEA (n=3). The survival rate was 81% at 15years after surgery with setting revision/removal as the endpoints. A deviation of ulnar component insertion angle of over 5° in any plane was associated with more revision compared to those with accurately placed implants. The Kudo type-5 elbow showed good results for up to 15years of follow-up. However, excessive deviation of insertion angle of the ulnar component (over 5°) was associated with more revision. Due to the small sample size, robust statistical analysis of risk factors for postoperative complications or revision could not be performed, and further research is warranted to resolve this limitation.

Interposition arthroplasty for post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the elbow: a systematic review

PurposeInterposition arthroplasty for the post-traumatic osteoarthritic elbow is a salvage procedure used in young and active patients and remains a rare and unexplored therapeutic option.MethodsWe systematically reviewed the available literature searching electronic databases, MEDLINE using the PubMed interface and EMBASE. The primary objective was to synthesize functional outcomes and to investigate revision frequencies, but also complication and subsequent surgery rates among patients with surviving grafts. The preferred reporting guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines were applied.ResultsFive studies were left for inclusion, all retrospective in design, comprising 67 patients. The mean age was 40 years, the mean follow-up period was 61 months, and 68.2% of the patients treated were male. Eleven patients (16.4%) were treated with fascia lata autografts, and 56 patients (83.6%) were treated with Achilles tendon allografts. The graft survived in 53 patients (79.1%); the post-operative Mayo Elbow Performance Score averaged 69 points. Fourteen patients (20.9%) required revision surgery. In the setting of graft survival, 39.1% of patients had complications not requiring further surgical treatment and 5.7% of patients with surviving grafts needed subsequent operative treatment within the follow-up period.ConclusionGiven graft survival, this systematic review demonstrated satisfactory functional outcomes following interposition arthroplasty of the post-traumatic osteoarthritic elbow, however, associated with a cumulative complication and subsequent operative treatment rate of 44.8%. In addition, a revision rate of 20.9% needs to be expected. Varus-valgus instability in the pre-operative clinical assessment seems to be associated with unsatisfactory post-operative elbow function. The superiority of either of the two main reported graft methods (fascia lata autograft and Achilles tendon allograft) remains pending, and the role of an external fixator in preventing post-operative instability remains unresolved.

Arthroscopic Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis Tenotomy and Debridement Versus Debridement Alone for Refractory Lateral Epicondylitis: Clinical and MRI Evaluation.

Background:Arthroscopic debridement of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon is a widely accepted procedure used in refractory lateral epicondylitis. However, residual pain occurs in some patients.Purpose:To investigate the clinical effectiveness of arthroscopic extended debridement (ECRB tenotomy and debridement) in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Patients with refractory lateral epicondylitis were consecutively recruited for this study. They underwent traditional ECRB debridement (control group) or extended ECRB debridement (ED group) under arthroscopy. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, and Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) were used to compare elbow function between the groups at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was also performed to evaluate pathology at 12 months.Results:A total of 69 patients participated in the study (33 patients in the ED group and 36 in the control group). After surgery, all patients showed improvement on all 3 outcome scores. Compared with the control group, the ED group had significantly better postoperative MEPS and VAS scores at 3 months (P ≤ .001 for both) and 6 months (P ≤ .03 for both) but similar values at 12 months. DASH scores between groups were similar at all time periods. At the 12-month follow-up, no patients in the ED group reported pain with strenuous work. Return-to-work (RTW) times were also shorter in the ED group compared with the controls (8 ± 4 vs 18 ± 8 weeks; P < .001). Postoperative MRI assessments revealed no high signal intensities on the lateral epicondyle in the ED group, while there was an increased internal signal intensity on the lateral epicondyle in 83% of the controls.Conclusion:Collectively, the extended ECRB debridement technique resulted in enhanced pain relief in the early postoperative period as well as providing faster RTW times compared with the traditional debridement technique. At 1 year follow-up, there were no differences in outcome measures between groups, but residual abnormal MRI findings were more common in the traditional debridement group.

Revision surgery for periprosthetic elbow infection: eradication rate, complications, and functional outcomes-a systematic review.

The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the outcomes of revision surgery after periprosthetic elbow infection (PEI). Eighteen studies with 332 PEI that underwent revision surgery were included. Demographics, laboratory and microbiological data, types of implants, surgical techniques with complications and reoperations, eradication rates, and clinical and functional outcomes were reported. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common microorganism (40%). Pre-operatively, the mean white blood cell count was 8400 ± 4000 per microliter; the mean C-reactive protein level was 41.6 ± 66.9mg/dl, and the mean erythrocyte sedimentation rate was 45 ± 66.9mm/h. The Coonrad-Morrey total elbow prosthesis represented 41.2% of the infected implant, and it also represented the most common system used for the PEI revision surgery. Two-stage revision and debridement and implant retention (DAIR) were the most common procedures performed for PEI, and, on the whole, they represented 35.7 and 32.7%, respectively. The eradication rate was 76% with 2-stage, 71% with resection arthroplasty (RA), 66.7% with 1-stage, 57.7% with DAIR, and 40% with arthrodesis (EA). DAIR showed a significantly lower eradication rate than 2-stage (P = 0.003). The mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score was significantly higher in patients who underwent DAIR, and 2-stage compared with RA (P < 0.001 for all). Postoperative flexion-extension ROM was significantly higher in patients who underwent DAIR compared with 1-stage, 2-stage, and RA (P < 0.001 for all). Moreover, 1-stage and 2-stage showed a significantly greater postoperative flexion-extension ROM compared with RA (P < 0.001 for all). Reoperations occurred in 40% of patients after EA, 33.3% after 1-stage, 26.9% after DAIR and RA, and 24.1% after 2-stage. Conversion to amputation occurred in 2.2% of patients after RA and 1% after DAIR. Two-stage revision and DAIR are the most common procedures used to manage PEI; however, the former procedure showed a significantly higher eradication rate. Resection arthroplasty showed a high eradication rate, but postoperative lower clinical and functional outcomes limit the indications for this technique. One-stage procedure showed a limited role in the current practice of PEI treatment. Level IV.

Japanese version of Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation is a useful outcome measure that potentially reflects hand function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis who underwent total elbow arthroplasty.

We examined the relationship between the Japanese version of Patient-Rated Elbow Evaluation (PREE-J) and other established subjective and objective outcome measures in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who underwent total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). This study involved 46 elbows of 40 RA patients. We collected clinical data 1 year after surgery, including the PREE-J, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH), and Hand20. The correlation and responsiveness to PREE-J were evaluated compared with other outcome measures preoperatively and postoperatively. Almost all outcome measures were improved significantly after surgery. Preoperative PREE-J was significantly correlated with preoperative DASH, Hand20, and MEPS. Interestingly, postoperative PREE-J did not correlate with postoperative MEPS. Multiple regression analyses revealed that preoperative grip strength [B = -0.09; 95% confidence interval (95% CI) -0.17 to -0.01, p = 0.03] and preoperative Hand20 (B = 0.31, 95% CI 0.03-0.58, p = 0.03) were significant factors that might influence the postoperative PREE-J. The PREE-J was shown to correlate well with other preoperative outcome measures among the RA patients included in the current study. The postoperative PREE-J after TEA was influenced by the preoperative grip strength and function of the hand.

Total elbow arthroplasty in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

The aims of this study were to validate the outcome of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and to identify factors that affect the outcome. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Reviews, and Embase from between January 2003 and March 2019. The primary aim was to determine the implant failure rate, the mode of failure, and risk factors predisposing to failure. A secondary aim was to identify the overall complication rate, associated risk factors, and clinical performance. A meta-regression analysis was completed to identify the association between each parameter with the outcome. A total of 38 studies including 2,118 TEAs were included in the study. The mean follow-up was 80.9 months (8.2 to 156). The implant failure and complication rates were 16.1% (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.128 to 0.200) and 24.5% (95% CI 0.203 to 0.293), respectively. Aseptic loosening was the most common mode of failure (9.5%; 95% CI 0.071 to 0.124). The mean postoperative ranges of motion (ROMs) were: flexion 131.5° (124.2° to 138.8°), extension 29.3° (26.8° to 31.9°), pronation 74.0° (67.8° to 80.2°), and supination 72.5° (69.5° to 75.5°), and the mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) was 89.3 (95% CI 86.9 to 91.6). The meta-regression analysis identified that younger patients and implants with an unlinked design correlated with higher failure rates. Younger patients were associated with increased complications, while female patients and an unlinked prosthesis were associated with aseptic loosening. TEA continues to provide satisfactory results for patients with RA. However, it is associated with a substantially higher implant failure and complication rates compared with hip and knee arthroplasties. The patient's age, sex, and whether cemented fixation and unlinked prosthesis were used can influence the outcome. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic Level IV. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2020;102-B(8):967-980.

Jung-Kwon Cha Yoon-Ho Kim

This study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes of using rotation flaps for soft tissue defects over the posterior elbow. A retrospective study was conducted among patients who had sustained posterior elbow defects and underwent rotation flap under local anesthesia between January 2, 2011, and December 31, 2014. Patient inclusion criteria stipulated the soft tissue defect had to be small (<12 cm2), was the result of wound dehiscence following posterior approach surgery immediately following trauma, and had failed to heal using nonsurgical treatment or primary closure. Patients with an active infection, malignancies, a defect of any etiology other than trauma, or incomplete operative data were excluded. Patient demographics, medical history, operative reports, and outcomes were abstracted. Flap failure and surgical complications were monitored for a minimum of 2 years after surgery. Range of motion (ROM; 0˚ to normal 130˚) and Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS) were evaluated and recorded before surgery and after 2 years' follow-up and included evaluating pain, ROM, stability, and daily function. Patient, wound, surgical, and wound healing variables were compared between the flap survival and flap failure/complication groups using Mann-Whitney U and chi-squared tests. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare pre- and postoperative MEPS and elbow ROM. Thirty (30) patients (13 male, 17 female; mean age 55 ± 15.6 [range 19-74] years) had complete records. Eighteen (18) flaps were created using the transolecranon approach, and 12 rotation flaps involved an olecranon fracture; 24 flaps survived and 6 patients experienced flap failure/complications (wound dehiscence or infection). Mean procedure duration was 25.6 ± 10.1 minutes. All defects were located over the olecranon with exposed bone or hardware. Mean defect size was 7.4 cm2 ± 2.9 cm2, the average defect duration was 60.4 (range 31-89) days, average time to wound healing was 21.9 ± 11.5 days, and mean follow-up time was 29.4 (range 24-56) months. All flaps successfully survived without recurrence. Mean pre- and postoperative MEPS were significantly different (56.4 vs. 90.2 points; P <.001). ROM did not differ significantly between mean preoperative range (extension 9.8˚ ± 3.2˚ and flexion 116.7˚ ± 10.2˚) and mean final follow-up range (extension 9.6˚ ± 2.6˚ and flexion 118.5˚ ± 11.3˚; P = .459). Rotation flap surgery performed under local anesthesia may offer a simple and safe option in the treatment of small (<12 cm2) trauma-related defects over the posterior elbow. More research is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for optimal approaches to posterior elbow soft tissue defect closure techniques.

High-grade Common Extensor Tendon Tears Maintaining Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis: Clinical and Structural Outcome Following Knotless Suture Anchor Repair

We describe the reconstruction of high-grade extensor tendon tears using a knotless suture anchor and hypothesize that this will result in improved elbow pain and function with a high healing rate. Twenty chronic lateral epicondylitis patients with magnetic resonance imaging–confirmed high-grade extensor tendon tears underwent surgery using a knotless suture anchor technique. All underwent clinical and ultrasound assessments and completed the quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation questionnaires at final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Scores were also determined. Mean patient age at surgery was 48 years with 11 women and 7 men available at final follow-up. Diagnostic arthroscopy was performed for all patients before repair; cartilage lesions were found in 8 patients. Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 55 to 100 points. At final follow-up, the median grip strength was 100% (range, 52 to 114) of the nonaffected side and patient-rated scores were almost 0. We did not observe any retears. Some tennis elbow patients may present with high-grade tears that contribute to chronic symptoms. Our repair technique resulted in a satisfactory outcome for these patients and may reduce the risk of secondary posterolateral instability following complete tendon release.

Outcomes After Hemiarthroplasty of the Elbow for the Management of Posttraumatic Arthritis: Minimum 2-Year Follow-up.

Hemiarthroplasty (HA) of the elbow represents an alternative to total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) without the associated activity restrictions. This study reviews our experience with distal humerus HA with minimum 2-year follow-up. Between 2002 and 2012, 16 elbows underwent HA for posttraumatic arthritis of the elbow. Patients were followed for a minimum of 2 years or until revision surgery. Outcome measures included pre- and postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPSs), complications, and revisions. Mean age at arthroplasty was 45 years, and follow-up averaged 51 months. All patients had previously undergone one or more surgical procedures at the elbow (average of 1.5 procedures). At follow-up, five had undergone additional surgery; two were revised to TEA. In surviving implants, the range of motion at follow-up was markedly improved from preoperative motion. The MEPS for the remaining HA included five excellent results, three good results, five fair results, and one poor result. Elbow HA is an option for young or active patients with end-stage elbow posttraumatic arthritis who are unwilling to accept activity limitations. However, high rates of revision surgery and revision to TEA occur after HA for posttraumatic osteoarthritis of the elbow. Only 57% of patients with surviving implants had a good to excellent MEPS, although improvement in the range of motion was predictable.

Modified triceps fascial tongue approach for primary total elbow arthroplasty

Triceps weakness is a common complication of total elbow arthroplasty (TEA). Many posterior approaches for TEA have been introduced to maintain triceps function. The present study evaluated the clinical outcomes and extensor strengths of primary TEA with modified triceps fascial tongue approach. Twenty-one primary TEAs performed in 20 patients by a single surgeon were reviewed with a mean of 64.2 months (range, 24-127 months) of follow-up. Every TEA was performed using the modified triceps fascial tongue approach, with the Coonrad-Morrey prosthesis. Patient demographics, range of motion, pain visual analog scale, and triceps strength (Medical Research Council [MRC] scale) were compared before and after the operation. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score was evaluated at the latest follow-up. Triceps strength was normal (MRC grade V) in 10 elbows (48%) and good (MRC grade IV) in 11 (52%). Triceps strength after arthroplasty was significantly improved compared with the preoperative strength (P < .001). Mean flexion arc was improved from 78° to 100° after arthroplasty (P = .004). However, mean flexion contracture (preoperative; 29°, postoperative; 26°) was not improved after surgery (P = .377). The mean visual analog scale pain score improved from 7.7 preoperatively to 2.4 postoperatively (P < .001). Postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Scores were excellent in 13 elbows, good in 6, and fair in 2. The only complications were 3 intraoperative condylar fractures. Modified triceps fascial tongue approach is an easy and effective approach for primary TEA.

Triple management of cubitus valgus deformity complicating neglected nonunion of fractures of lateral humeral condyle in children: a case series.

Long standing nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle (LHC) usually results in elbow pain and instability with progressive cubitus valgus and tardy ulnar neuritis. Surgical treatment of long standing nonunion is still a controversial issue due to the reported complications, such as stiffness, loss of elbow motion, and avascular necrosis of the LHC fragment. In this study, we reported the outcomes of treatment of cubitus valgus deformity in long standing nonunion of the LHC in children treated with combined triple management (fixation of the nonunion site, dome corrective osteotomy, and anterior transposition of ulnar nerve) through a modified para-triceptal approach. We evaluated tenpatients with cubitus valgus deformity more than 20 degrees after neglected nonunion of the lateral humeral condyle more than 24months. Only childern with post-operative follow up more than 24months were included in this study. All patients were evaluated clinically, radio logically, and by pre- and post-operative functional evaluation using Mayo elbow performance score. For evaluation of ulnar nerve affection, the Akahori's system was used. There were six females and four males with the average age of 7.7years at operation. The left elbow was affected in six patients and the right elbow was affected in four patients. The average time between fracture of the LHC and operation was 40.3months with average post-operative follow up of 44.3months. The average carrying angle of the healthy side was 5.5 degrees and pre-operative carrying angle of the affected side was 33.5 degrees. The average post-operative carrying angle of the affected side was 6.1 degrees. The improvement of the carrying angle at the last follow up was found statistically significant (p < 0.05). All six patients that had pre-operative various degrees of ulnar nerve affection had completely improved at last follow up. The osteotomy site united in an average time of 43days, whereas the LHC nonunion site united in an average time of 77.2days. The osteotomy site united in significantly less time than the LHC non-union site (p < 0.05). The correlation between time since injury and time of union of LHC non-union site was significant (p < 0.05). Post-operative elbow range of motion was not changed in five patients, slightly decreased in four patients, and increased in one patient. Three patients had an average 6.7 degrees (range; 5-10) loss of the last degrees of flexion. One patient developed extension lag of 10 degrees. The mean elbow range of motion (ROM) pre-operatively was 139 ± 4.6 degrees while the mean post-operative ROM was 138 ± 5.3 degrees. The difference was found to be statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). The mean pre-operative Mayo elbow performance score was poor 55 ± 9.7, four patients had fair score, and six had poor score. The mean post-operative Mayo elbow performance score was excellent 92.5 ± 10, six patients had excellent score, and four had good score. The improvement of the Mayo score at the last follow up was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05). No intra-operative complications were recorded during any of the procedures and no patient developed a wound or pin track infection post-operatively. At the last follow up, none of the patients had developed avascular necrosis of the LHC. Preservation of the blood supply of the nonunited fragment is the key to successful management. This combined technique successfully addresses different aspects of the problem simultaneously and provides a durable solution without deterioration of the results over time. The para-triceptal approach provided excellent exposure of both sides of the elbow with minimal disruption of the triceps muscle.

The timing of open surgical release of post-traumatic elbow stiffness: A systematic review.

Background:Open release of post-traumatic elbow stiffness is effective in restoring elbow function, but there is no guideline on the optimal time point of surgical release so far. The purpose of this article was to summarize the current available literature reporting on the timing of open release of post-traumatic elbow stiffness.Methods:The PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE were searched with a set of predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Manual searches for references were performed to find potential relevant studies. Two authors separately extracted data from all the articles selected.Results:27 articles published between 1989 and 2017 were included with an overall enrollment of 836 patients. We divided all included studies into 3 groups according to the timing of surgical release: group 1 (6–10 months after injury), group 2 (11–20 months after injury), and group 3(>20 months after injury). The mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and recurrence rate were similar among the 3 groups; however, the mean gain in arc of motion in group 1 was the highest with the lowest complication rate among the 3 groups.Conclusion:There was a trend toward a shorter waiting time from injury to open arthrolysis from 12 months to 6 months. The shorter waiting period of 6 to 10 months yielded better results. Therefore, early surgical release of stiff elbows is recommended for a shorter rehabilitation time and earlier return to work.Level of evidence: Level IV, Systematic Review.

Free non-vascularized fibular graft for treatment of large bone defect around the elbow in pediatric patients.

Large bone defect is a challenging problem in orthopedics practice. Several methods are available for bridging of these bone defects, including cancellous bone graft, free vascularized fibula graft, and bone transport with external ring fixator. The aim of this study was to describe our experience in nine pediatric cases of free non-vascularized autogenous fibular strut bone graft in which large bone defect and bone loss of >7cm was caused by open fracture and infective nonunion around the elbow joint. To describe our experience in nine pediatric cases of free non-vascularized autogenous fibular strut bone graft in which large bone defect and bone loss of >7cm was caused by open fracture and infective nonunion around the elbow joint. This retrospective review was conducted in patients with large bone defect with bony gap >7cm. Time to union, range of motion, complications, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) were recorded. The large bone defects included in this study were managed by free non-vascularized fibular strut bone grafts (FNVFG) that were harvested subperiosteally. Nine patients with a mean age of 11years (range: 6-17) underwent this procedure. Nine grafts (100%) united at both ends within an average of 9weeks (range: 8-14). Mean length of defect was 9.3cm (range: 8-13cm). Mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score was significantly higher than the mean preoperative score (98.33 vs. 64.44, respectively; p<0.001). Three fibulae were observed for hypertrophy. Mean Foot and Ankle Disability Index score was 100 both preoperatively and postoperatively in all patients. Free non-vascularized fibular graft is a simple procedure and a reliable method for bridging large bone defect or loss caused by open fracture and/or infection around the elbow in pediatric patients.

A Meta-analysis of perpendicular plating versus parallel plating in treatment of intercondylar humeral fractures

Objective To systematically compare the efficacy of perpendicular plating versus parallel plating in the treatment of intercondylar humeral fractures. Methods Such databases as PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, WANFANG database and China National Knowledge Infrastructure were searched from their establishment to September 2014 for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating perpendicular plating versus parallel plating in the treatment of intercondylar humeral fractures. The references of the RCTs included were also searched by hand. The retrieved RCTs were screened by inclusion and exclusion criteria before data extraction and quality assessment. The meta-analyses were performed using the software RevMan5.1. The level of evidence was assessed by the GRADE system. Results Eight RCTs involving 389 patients were included. The meta-analyses showed no statistically significant differences between perpendicular plating and parallel plating in operation time, fracture healing time, postoperative complications, elbow flexion and extension, forearm rotation, postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score or Cassebaum score (P > 0.05). According to the GRADE system, all the evidence was at intermediate level and for moderate recommendation. Conclusions Both perpendicular plating and parallel plating can lead to similarly effective treatment of intercondylar humeral fractures. Both of them can achieve stable fixation. Key words: Humeral fractures; Elbow joint; Fracture fixation, internal; Meta-analysis

Stability of severely stiff elbows after complete open release: treatment by ligament repair with suture anchors and hinged external fixator

Instability is a crucial issue in severe post-traumatic elbow stiffness during complete-release surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ligament repair using a suture anchor in the operative treatment of severely stiff elbows for which a hinged external fixator was indicated. We retrospectively reviewed 46 cases of severely stiff elbows (flexion arc <60°) undergoing open release. During the operation, all 46 elbows were noted to have instability. Suture anchors were applied to restore the ligament if it was impossible to repair the ligament directly, and a hinged external fixator was simultaneously applied to protect the vulnerable ligament and facilitate rehabilitation. No allograft or autograft was used in any of our cases. The stability, arc of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score, ulnar nerve symptoms, and radiographs were evaluated. At a mean follow-up of 24.3 months, the postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 91 points, as compared with 63 points preoperatively. The mean flexion arc improved from 25° to 126°. Three patients presented with moderate elbow instability when the hinged external fixator was removed; however, all of them regained stability by the last follow-up. Furthermore, 7 cases of new-onset nerve palsy were noted; however, all of them resolved with conservative management. None of the patients required secondary surgery for any reason. Repair of an avulsed collateral ligament with suture anchors and hinged external fixation was effective in restoring functional mobility in patients with severe post-traumatic elbow stiffness after complete release. This could be an option for treating ankylosed, severely or very severely stiff elbows.

A Preliminary Report of Acute and Subacute Arthroscopic Repair of the Radial Ulnohumeral Ligament After Elbow Dislocation in the High-Demand Patient

The purpose of this study was to evaluate functional outcomes, range of motion (ROM), elbow stability, and time to return to full activities after acute and subacute arthroscopic repair of a simple elbow dislocation in high-demand patients. "High-demand patients" were defined as in-season athletes and individuals who required use of both hands for their profession and believed that they could not miss the 6 weeks of work that may be required with conservative treatment in an elbow brace. We retrospectively reviewed 14 consecutive patients with a simple elbow dislocation who underwent arthroscopic repair of the radial ulnohumeral ligament from 2008-2012. Outcomes measures included the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), elbow ROM, elbow stability, and time to return to full activities. Each patient was contacted once by telephone to determine the current activity level and presence of any pain or functional limitations. The mean patient age was 25 years, with telephone follow-up at a mean of 30 months and clinical examination after a minimum of 6 months. The postoperative MEPS was excellent (mean, 99.6; range, 95 to 100) for all 14 patients, and all returned to their preinjury level of function with no restrictions or instability. Final ROM averaged -3° of full extension to greater than 130° of flexion. The mean time to return to full activities in and out of a brace was 2.7 weeks and 6.6 weeks, respectively, in the acute group and 4.6 weeks and 8.9 weeks, respectively, in the subacute group. All patients were satisfied with their outcome. Conservative management remains the gold standard for most simple elbow dislocations. We believe that certain high-demand patients may be candidates for acute arthroscopic ligamentous repair. Our preliminary data show that acute arthroscopic repair of the radial ulnohumeral ligament is a safe, effective procedure that restores stability to the elbow and allows patients to quickly return to full activities. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Chronic Essex-Lopresti injuries: an alternative treatment method

Currently, no technique has met general acceptance for the restoration of forearm longitudinal stability in chronic Essex-Lopresti injuries. The purpose of this study is to present an alternative treatment method for chronic Essex-Lopresti lesions by radial head replacement and ulnar shortening osteotomy. Seven patients with a mean age of 42.4 years were included in the study. Five patients had a staged approach, and 2 underwent both procedures simultaneously. The pain level was assessed with the use of a visual analog scale. Elbow, forearm, and wrist range of motion was evaluated. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score and Mayo Wrist Score were used to assess the postoperative outcomes. The mean follow-up time was 33 months. The mean pain level was reduced from 8.4 points preoperatively to 3.3 points postoperatively (P < .05). The elbow arc of motion was increased on average from 79° preoperatively to 121° postoperatively (P < .05). Forearm rotation improved from 76° preoperatively to 119° postoperatively (P < .05). The wrist arc of motion improved from 94° preoperatively to 114° postoperatively (P < .05). The mean postoperative Mayo Elbow Performance Score and Mayo Wrist Score were 82 points and 71 points, respectively. The mean ulnar variance was reduced from +8 mm to +3.5 mm postoperatively. This study shows that radial head replacement in combination with ulnar shortening osteotomy can be used as an alternative reconstructive procedure in the case of a complex chronic Essex-Lopresti injury. This combination of known procedures yields predictable and satisfactory outcomes and a low complication rate. Level IV, case series, treatment study.

Elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: clinical, radiographic, and ultrasound outcomes at a mean 3-year follow-up

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) has the main function to be stress-resistant to elbow valgus overload. Multilayer tears require a reconstruction with a tendon graft. In this study, we report the clinical, radiographic, and ultrasound outcomes after tendon graft reconstruction for symptomatic UCL insufficiency. Among twenty-six subjects underwent elbow UCL reconstruction from 2006 to 2012, fifteen were available to be evaluated at a mean follow-up of 36months. Preoperative assessment included clinical examination and MRI. The outcome measures were the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS); the Oxford Elbow Score (OES); the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH); and the Conway-Jobe Scale. Overall population was postoperatively investigated with X-ray and ultrasound (US). Reconstruction was performed with autograft (palmaris longus) in five cases and allograft (semitendinosus) in ten cases using the figure-of-eight configuration (five cases), the docking technique (eight cases), or a fixation with screws (two cases). We found a significant improvement in postoperative MEPS, OES, and DASH scores (p<0.01). One case was unsatisfied and required an additional procedure of ulnar nerve transposition 12months after the reconstruction. X-ray showed calcifications along the graft in ten cases. At US examination, all the grafts assessed appeared anatomically intact without structural changes, and the dynamic examination showed a slight medial laxity with the valgus stress maneuver without pain or other sign of medial instability. This study confirms the efficacy of the graft reconstruction for chronic UCL insufficiency and introduces fresh insight on the role of musculoskeletal ultrasound to evaluate the reconstructed UCL.

Forked osteotomy arthroplasty for elbow tuberculosis: six years of follow-up

Elbow tuberculosis (TB) is not rare in China. Most patients are diagnosed when it is at an advanced stage and with bony ankylosis complications. For a developing country, such as China, it is important for there to be safe and cost-effective procedures. A retrospective study was designed to assess the effects of improved forked excision arthroplasty for treating elbow TB. There were 20 patients (average age, 48.45 years). For all patients, the preoperative diagnosis was elbow TB at an advanced stage. All patients underwent forked excision arthroplasty. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the Mayo's elbow performance score (MEPS). Mean follow-up was at 74.4 months. At the last follow-up, the mean postoperative MEPS was 83.7 compared with the preoperative MEPS of 20.25. Results of Mayo's elbow performance index were excellent in seven patients, good in 12 and fair in one, and none were poor. The range of elbow motion also improved significantly. This study of forked elbow excision arthroplasty has shown promising results for treating elbow TB. Most patients had ideal postoperative outcomes and exhibited painless elbow joints, with satisfactory functional recovery at medium-term follow-up. Further studies with longer follow-up are warranted. III.

Modular prosthesis replacement for comminuted and unreconstructable radial head fractures

Objective To analyze the results of modular prosthesis replacement for treatment of comminuted and unreconstructable radial head fractures associated with other elbow fractures and sof-tissue injuries. Methods From November 2009 to March 2011,22 patients with comminuted radial head fracture of Mason type Ⅲ were treated with Acumed modular prosthesis replacement. Repair of collateral ligaments and associated elbow fractures was carried out simultaneously.They were 16 men and 6 women,with an average age of 41.5 years (from 21 to 62 years).The left side was involved in 9 cases and the right in 13.One patient was associated with posterior olecranon fracture-dislocation of Monteggia type Ⅱ,13 with elbow terrible triad,one with elbow dislocation but without coronoid process fracture,3 with Essex-Lopresti injury and 4 with medial collateral ligament injury.The coronoid process fracture was fixated with Kirschner wire and the proximal ulnar fracture with plate and screw.Hinged external fixators were used in 2 cases of elbow terrible triad.Patients were evaluated by the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Results The follow-ups averaged 12.95 months ( range,6 to 22 months ).One patient had disturbed elbow flexion of less than 90° due to prosthesis overstuffing,one patient had elbow instability in spite of full range of motion gained due to prosthesis understuffing,and one patient had elbow ankylosis at elbow flexion of 70° with a heterotopic ossification bridge.The results in the other 19 patients were good to excellent. Their average flexion was 131.5°±4.4° (from 130° to 140°),average extension 5.4°±6.3° (from 0 to 20°),average range of extension-flexion motion 126.1 ° ± 7.7° ( from 120° to 140°),average pronation 81.6° ± 6.4° ( from 70°to 90°),average supination 85.6° ± 3.1° (from 80° to 90°),and average range of rotation 167.2° ± 8.2°(from 150° to 180°).Their mean postoperative MEPS score was 94.2 ± 5.1 points (from 85 to 100points). Conclusions The Acumed modular radial head prosthesis offers 200 standard combinations (10left and 10 right stem options with 5 diameters and 4 collar height options) to accommodate different sizes and provide proper restoration of the overall length of the radius,replicates natural radial head geometry,provides improved articulation with the capitellum,prevents loosening and maintains the proper relationship between the radial neck and the plane of the head.Consequently,it is a fine treatment option for radial head fractures of Mason type Ⅲ complicated with additional elbow fractures and soft-tissue injuries,but it can also lead to complications. Key words: Elbow joint; Fractures; Surgical procedures, operative; Arthroplasty, replacement