Debridement Arthroplasty using Posteromedial Approach in Elbow Joint with Pain and Bony Limitation of Motion

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study evaluated the clinical outcomes of debridement arthroplasty using the posteromedial approach in elbow joints with pain and bony limitation of motion. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study involved 16 elbows in 16 patients with pain and bony limitation of motion, which were treated by debridement arthroplasty using the posteromedial approach from March 2005 to March 2008. The mean follow up period was 27.6 (13~52) months. The clinical outcomes were analyzed using the Visual Analogue Scale(VAS) for pain scale, the preoperative and postoperative range of motion and the Mayo Elbow Performance Scores(MEPS). RESULTS: The VAS was decreased significantly from a preoperative mean of 4.5 to a postoperative mean 1.1 (p<0.001). The average arc of motion improved significantly from 61.6 (0~90)degrees preoperatively to 109.4 (80-120)degrees postoperatively (p<0.001). The MEPS also improved significantly from 59.4 to 85.6 postoperatively (p<0.001). There were no complications, such as hematoma and elbow instability. CONCLUSION: Debridement arthroplasty using the posteromedial approach is a useful surgical procedure in the elbow joint with pain and bony limitation of motion, where all compartments can be debrided, the ulnar nerve can be manipulated easily and damage to the medial collateral ligament can be minimized.