Abstract

The elbow is a highly constrained hinge joint with a high propensity for stiffness after bony or soft tissue injury, and heterotopic ossification (HO) after brain injury is considered one of the most debilitating causes resulting in severe limitation of motion and everyday activities.

The purpose of the present retrospective study was to report the results of surgical treatment for post-traumatic elbow stiffness caused by HO in patients with elbow trauma and brain injury necessitating admission to intensive care unit.

Although surgical treatment of HO is technically demanding and accompanied by high complication rates, reasonable outcome can be expected regardless of preoperative ROM or the type of brain injury, provided that upper limb does not a have any neurological deficit. While some loss of motion from what significantly gained intra-operatively can be expected, a majority of patients who actively participate in their post-operative physical therapy program will achieve an optimal outcome by preserving a functional arc of motion.

Keywords: Heterotopic ossification; Elbow joint stiffness; Brain injury

Abbreviations: HO: Heterotopic ossification; ICU: Intensive Care Unit