➢ The elbow is prone to the formation of heterotopic ossification after trauma. Elbow contracture due to heterotopic ossification leads to compromised range of motion and disabilities in performing daily activities. ➢ The treatment of elbow contracture is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary assessment. ➢ Nonoperative treatment is appropriate for patients within 6 months after the injury to counter the progressive loss of motion during the maturation of heterotopic bone. ➢ Operative intervention is indicated if the functional arc of motion cannot be maintained. ➢ Open arthrolysis combined with heterotopic excision, ulnar nerve decompression and transposition, and application of a hinged external fixator are effective interventions for improving elbow function. ➢ A prolonged and rigorous rehabilitation protocol after elbow release is important for preserving the arc of motion achieved during surgery.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.
➢ The elbow is prone to the formation of heterotopic ossification after trauma. Elbow contracture due to heterotopic ossification leads to compromised range of motion and disabilities in performing daily activities. ➢ The treatment of elbow contracture is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary assessment. ➢ Nonoperative treatment is appropriate for patients within 6 months after the injury to counter the progressive loss of motion during the maturation of heterotopic bone. ➢ Operative intervention is indicated if the functional arc of motion cannot be maintained. ➢ Open arthrolysis combined with heterotopic excision, ulnar nerve decompression and transposition, and application of a hinged external fixator are effective interventions for improving elbow function. ➢ A prolonged and rigorous rehabilitation protocol after elbow release is important for preserving the arc of motion achieved during surgery.
Copyright remains with the authors and publisher.