Interposition Arthroplasty in Untreated Chronic Dislocation of the Elbow

Abstract

Objective: To describe the clinical outcomes of interposition arthroplasty with transposition of the medial epicondyle to the coronoid process and articulated external fixation in patients with untreated chronic dislocation of the elbow. Methods: Fourteen consecutive patients diagnosed with untreated chronic elbow dislocation performed a complete radiological and physical examination. The same surgeon treated all patients with a same technique. Passive mobilization started immediately in addition to the vigorous care of the surgical wound and surrounding skin. Results: A total of 14 patients were treated, with a mean age of 31 years, with the nondominant side being the most affected (65%). In the immediate postoperative period, the initial Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 60 pts. In all cases, the distraction from the articulated fixator was removed, and there was an average of 16 pts improvement at the time of removal. A hinged elbow orthosis was placed for 4 weeks starting strengthening and obtained radiographic integration of the neocoronoids; ranges of motion of flexion 122°, extension −6°, and pronosupination 70°, without data of any direction instability. Conclusion: Considering that this is one of the longest series with a follow-up of more than 60 months of evolution in our patients, the result is completely satisfactory, achieving the objective of a minimum range of motion of 100° in addition to elbow stability.