We analyzed the clinical results of surgical treatment in patients with post-traumatic stiff elbow.

We performed surgical release in 22 elbows with posttraumatic stiffness of extraarticular origin. The average preoperative arc was 48.3 °, with an average flexion contracture of 39.5 ° and an average further flexion of 87.2 °. Depending on their radiographic findings, cases were divided on the basis of whether ectopic ossification was present (16 cases) or not (6 cases); and as to whether the articular surface was involved (11 cases) or not (11 cases). The postoperative final arc and ratio of desired gain were compared between the groups.

The average final arc was 108.9 ° in the ectopic ossification group and 85.7 ° in the non-ectopic ossification group, and showed a significantly higher arc in the ectopic ossification group. The ratios of desired gain were 89.3% and 62.6%, respectively, being significantly higher in the ectopic ossification group. In terms of articular surface involvement, no significant difference was observed between the two groups.

When performing operative treatment for post-traumatic stiff elbow, assessment of the cause plays an important role. In case of ectopic ossification, satisfactory results can be expected with operative treatment after the ectopic bone has matured.