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At least 55 records · Page 3Linked to original sources

Grip strength in patients with tennis elbow. Influence of elbow position.

We measured the grip force in 20 chronic tennis elbows: The grip strength, measured with the elbow in 90 degrees flexion as well as in full extension, was significantly less (p < 0.001) on the pathological side when compared to the other, uninvolved side. on the pathological side, the grip strength measured with the elbow in full extension, was significantly reduced when compared to the grip strength measured with the elbow at 90 degrees flexion (p < 0.0001). on the normal side, the grip strength measured with the elbow in extension was not significantly different when compared to the grip strength measured with the elbow in 90 degrees flexion.

Adult↗

The relationship between elbow flexor volume and angular stiffness at the elbow.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this experiment was to determine if a correlation exists between the volume of the elbow flexors and angular stiffness at the elbow, and to determine the contribution of the biceps brachii and the brachialis muscles to angular stiffness. DESIGN: This study is a descriptive, correlational study and presents a graphical model of the passive properties of muscle. BACKGROUND: The correlation between arm volume and angular stiffness has been shown, but the measurement of arm volume was not specific to the structures being strained. Pre-positioning a bi-articular muscle by stretching over one joint decreases the range of motion at the other joint and may affect the stiffness. METHODS: Angular stiffness at the elbow of 14 female and 15 male volunteers was measured, and the volume of the elbow flexors was calculated from compounded ultrasound imaging. Initial biceps length was set by pre-positioning the shoulder in two different positions. RESULTS: A significant linear relationship was observed between the slope of phase 1 of the stiffness curve and volume of the elbow flexors in both horizontal flexion (r = 0.92) and horizontal extension (r = 0.79) of the shoulder. Phase 2 of the stiffness curve showed no linear relationship to muscle volume in either shoulder position (flexion, r = 0.22; extension r = 0.33). The slopes of phases 1 and 2 were significantly greater with the shoulder in horizontal extension than in horizontal flexion. CONCLUSION: The volume of the elbow flexor muscles is a good predictor of angular stiffness in phase 1 of the curve. A model of the additive contribution of the biceps and brachialis muscles is presented to account for the increased stiffness in the shoulder extended position. RELEVANCE: Recognition of the correlation between muscle volume and stiffness, coupled with understanding that pre-positioning a bi-articular muscle may affect muscle stiffness may aid the clinician in accurately assessing muscle stiffness in patients with connective tissue disorders, neurological dysfunction and contractures.

Journal Article↗

[Mammoplasty as preparatory step to elbow arthroplasty for complete ankylosis of the elbow: a case report].

A 45-year old polytraumatized female patient presented with an ankylosed elbow two years after a traffic accident. A skin graft adherent to the proximal radius was painful and precluded any attempt at total elbow arthroplasty. Local muscular, cutaneous and vascular sequelae contraindicated the usual local regional flaps or made risky elbow coverage with free flaps. The patient's breast hypertrophy, an obstacle to a random-pattern flap on the torso, offered enough tissue to cover the injured elbow with an axial-pattern flap of the left breast lower-outer quadrant. Six months later the patient had a total elbow arthroplasty with pain suppression and improvement of the range of motion.

Ankylosis↗

Functional latissimus dorsi island pedicle musculocutaneous flap to restore elbow flexion in replantation or revascularisation of above-elbow amputations.

Two total and one subtotal above-elbow amputations had replantation or revascularization for their severely damaged upper extremities followed by functional latissimus dorsi island pedicle musculocutaneous flap to restore elbow flexion. The mean follow-up was 68 months (range: 14 to 121 months). At final follow-up examinations, the patients had sufficient range-of-motion of their elbows with good strength. Restoring elbow function eliminates one of the most important limiting factors for above-elbow replantations. Functional latissimus dorsi island pedicle musculocutaneous flap is very reliable, has minimal donor-site morbidity and offers a wider choice when deciding about arm replantation in the upper arm region by providing a chance of restoring functions.

Accidents, Occupational↗

A new articulated elbow external fixation technique for difficult elbow trauma.

Articulated external fixation of the elbow allows aggressive elbow range of motion while protecting the joint and periarticular structures from excessive forces. A technique for aligning a monolateral-hinged fixator to the rotational axis of the elbow without the use of an invasive axis pin has been developed. Thirteen patients with acute and chronic post-traumatic elbow problems were treated over a four year period with this technique. An average arc of motion of 84 degrees was achieved in the frame. Frames were removed at an average of 7.6 weeks. Complications were confined to pin tract infections. In 11 patients followed for an average of 35 weeks the average arc of motion was 81 degrees. Further experience is required to determine the role of this device and to identify which elbows achieve the most benefit compared to conventional techniques.

Adult↗

Systematic review of primary total elbow prostheses used for the rheumatoid elbow.

Total elbow prosthesis (TEP) has been shown to be a viable option for treatment of the rheumatoid elbow. Many types of TEP have been studied, but the heterogeneity of the studies makes most conclusions subject to discussion. The aim of this systematic review is to show the differences between the most commonly used TEP for the destroyed rheumatoid elbow. After a search in Pubmed (NLM, Bethesda, USA) the senior author selected eight frequently used TEP: the Capitellocondylar, Coonrad-Morrey, GSB III, Kudo, Liverpool, Norway, Roper-Tuke and Souter-Strathclyde. For inclusion studies we arbitrarily formulated nine criteria, after which clearly adverse events were defined for comparison purposes. The Capitellocondylar and Souter-Strathclyde prostheses are the most-studied treatments for replacing the rheumatoid elbow. In contrast to the Capitellocondylar, the Souter-Strathclyde prosthesis showed higher loosening rates but implemented modifications of the design have reduced these rates in recent studies. Nevertheless, in relation to most other joint replacements in rheumatoid patients, all TEP still have higher complication rates. For this reason an elbow prosthesis may just be warranted in seriously disabled patients.

Arthritis, Rheumatoid↗

A review of total elbow arthroplasty and an early assessment of the Liverpool elbow prosthesis.

The elbow joint is frequently affected by rheumatoid arthritis causing pain and disability which limits the use of the upper limb. Excisional or interpositional arthroplasties of the elbow have failed to provide satisfactory results. The design of a total elbow prosthesis in early 1970's followed the principles and evolution of joint replacement in the lower limb. In this study twenty-two Liverpool elbow prostheses (non-constrained) in nineteen patients were reviewed with an average follow-up of 26.5 months. Postoperatively the arc of flexion-extension improved with no change in pronation-supination range. Pain was significantly improved postoperatively. Rheumatoid patients were very pleased, but patients with secondary osteoarthritis were less satisfied. Two prostheses became loose and three had deep infection and were removed. Five patients had postoperative symptoms of ulnar neuritis and in three the symptoms gradually resolved. Early results of total elbow arthroplasty are promising in carefully selected patients.

Adult↗

Bone destruction patterns of the rheumatoid elbow: a radiographic assessment of 148 elbows at 15 years.

A cohort of 74 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was followed prospectively for 15 years. At the end of the study, 148 elbows were radiographed with standard methods. The bone destruction of the humerus was measured from the anteroposterior (AP) radiograph as the bone attrition of the trochlea (TM) and the capitellum (CM). The bone destruction of the ulna was measured from the AP radiograph as the width (WO) and from the lateral radiograph as the thickness (TO) of the olecranon. Moreover, elbow joint destruction was graded by the Larsen system on a scale of 0 to 5. The relation of bone destruction to Larsen grade of the elbows was examined. The mean TM of the nonaffected (Larsen grades 0 to 1, n = 73) joints was 17.5 mm (SD, 2.1 mm; range, 10-22 mm), whereas the mean of Larsen grade 3 to 5 joints (n = 26) was 11.5 mm (SD, 5.2 mm). The mean CM of the nonaffected joints was 19.6 mm (SD, 2.6 mm; range, 15-25 mm), and the corresponding mean of Larsen grade 3 to 5 joints 15.5 mm (SD, 4.5 mm). The mean TO of the nonaffected joints was 18.9 mm (SD, 1.5 mm; range, 17-23 mm), and the mean of Larsen grade 3 to 5 joints was 13.9 mm (SD, 4.1 mm). The mean WO of the nonaffected joints was 23.3 (SD, 2.4 mm; range, 18-28 mm), and the mean of Larsen grade 3 to 5 joints was 22.4 mm (SD, 6.2 mm). Spearman correlation coefficients between TM, CM, and TO and Larsen grade of the joint were -0.45 (95% CI, -0.31 to -0.57), -0.38 (95% CI, -0.23 to -0.51), and -0.46 (95% CI, -0.31 to -0.57), respectively. Bone destruction in both the humerus and the olecranon appears to be a late consequence of rheumatoid elbow involvement. Bone loss is always present in the situation of rheumatoid elbow replacement, and it is most remarkable in Larsen grade 5 joints; the risk of preoperative and intraoperative complications due to bone destruction is significantly increased in this group.

Adolescent↗

The Kudo elbow prosthesis in rheumatoid arthritis: a consecutive series of 26 elbow replacements in 24 patients followed prospectively for a mean of 5 years.

The Kudo prosthesis is the most commonly used elbow implant in Sweden. However, there are few reports of the results, besides those reported by Kudo himself. I have implanted 30 Kudo type 4 or 5 elbow prostheses in 28 patients with rheumatoid arthritis. 3 arthroplastics were revised, 2 because of loosening and 1 because of a periprosthetic ulnar fracture. 6 major peroperative or early postoperative complications occurred, but only 1 of these was a failure. 2 patients developed postoperative ulnar neuropathy, one was transient and the other patient died 1 year after surgery. 26 elbows were available for follow-up at an average 5 (2-8) years after implantation. All 26 functioned well although radiographic loosening of the humeral component was found in 1 patient. The average range of flexion increased by 14 degrees while the extension lag was unchanged (35 degrees). Activities of daily living had improved markedly and all but 3 patients were satisfied with their elbow. Radiolucent lines were seen around the proximal part of the ulnar component in 18/26 elbows. Although progressive in 1 patient only, this is a matter of concern, indicating that this component may be the weak part of the Kudo prosthesis.

Activities of Daily Living↗

Micromotion of the Souter-Strathclyde total elbow prosthesis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis 21 elbows followed for 2 years.

21 elbows in 18 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were treated with a Souter-Strathclyde total elbow prosthesis. 18 elbows were included in a radiostereometry (RSA) study. The aim of this clinical RSA study was to assess the three-dimensional micromotion pattern of the Souter-Strathclyde prosthesis, and thereby gain insight in the aseptic loosening process of this prosthesis. Implants were defined as at risk of aseptic loosening when the translation rate during the second postoperative year was more than 0.4 mm along one or more coordinate axes and/or the rate of rotation was more than 1 degrees about one or more coordinate axes. Clinical examination revealed an increase in the range of motion and a marked reduction in pain. The RSA showed that 8 of 18 humeral components were at risk of aseptic loosening, although no signs of such loosening-defined as a complete radiolucent line of 2 mm or more-were found on the plain radiographs. In 7 humeral components, an anterior tilt about the transverse axis was seen that resulted in an anterior translation of the proximal tip and a posterior translation of the component's trochlea. Long-term studies of the Souter-Strathclyde prosthesis, have shown that this rotation is a specific pattern of failure in some implants. None of the ulnar components was at risk for aseptic loosening. Improvements in fixation of the Souter-Strathclyde total elbow arthroplasty should focus on the humeral component. At present, the lateral flange of the implant is enlarged to improve rotational stability about the transverse and longitudinal axes. The effect of this change in design on micromotion of the Souter-Strathclyde total elbow prosthesis will be studied in a randomized RSA study comparing the new design to the existing one.

Aged↗

Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty for tumours of the distal humerus and elbow.

We reviewed 20 patients who had undergone a Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty after resection of a primary or metastatic tumour from the elbow or distal humerus between 1980 and 2002. Eighteen patients underwent reconstruction for palliative treatment with restoration of function after intralesional surgery and two after excision of a primary bone tumour. The mean follow-up was 30 months (1 to 192). Five patients (25%) were alive at the final follow-up; 14 (70%) had died of their disease and one of unrelated causes. Local control was achieved in 15 patients (75%). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score improved from 22 (5 to 45) to 75 points (55 to 95). Four reconstructions (20%) failed and required revision. Seven patients (35%) had early complications, the most frequent being nerve injury (25%). There were no infections or wound complications although 18 patients (90%) had radiotherapy, chemotherapy or both. The Coonrad-Morrey total elbow arthroplasty provides good relief from pain and a good functional outcome after resection of tumours of the elbow. The rates of complications involving local recurrence of tumour (25%) and nerve injury (25%) are of concern.

Aged↗

Total elbow arthroplasty after resection of tumors at the elbow.

Between 1980 and 1993, 13 patients underwent total elbow arthroplasty at the authors' institution after resection of tumors around the elbow. Arc of elbow motion from extension to flexion improved from a preoperative mean of 29 degrees to a postoperative mean of 73 degrees. Pain scores decreased from a preoperative mean of 3.6 to a postoperative mean of 2.0. Three patients had an excellent, six had a good, two had a fair, and two had a poor result. All seven patients with primary tumors had good or excellent results, compared with only two of six patients with metastatic lesions to the elbow. The data from this study suggest total elbow arthroplasty after resection of tumors provides significant pain relief and improvement in function. Patients with metastatic lesions may be candidates for the procedure, especially if all other methods of palliation have been exhausted. However, the results for patients with metastatic lesions may not be satisfactory.

Adult↗

Anterior elbow release of spastic elbow flexion deformity in children with cerebral palsy.

This study evaluated anterior elbow release for spastic elbow flexion deformity in children with cerebral palsy. Forty-two consecutive surgical procedures are reported in 40 children with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up. The procedure included incision of the lacertus fibrosus, fractional lengthening of the brachialis aponeurosis, and denuding the peritendinous adventitia from the biceps tendon to remove afferent nerve fibers and receptors. Preoperative and postoperative measurements of the flexion posture angle, active extension, and active flexion were obtained, as well as completion of a written questionnaire by the parents. Flexion posture angle improved from 104 degrees before surgery to 55 degrees after surgery, a reduction of 49 degrees; active extension improved from 43 degrees to 27 degrees. There was no significant change in elbow flexion. Before surgery, the average percentage use of the arm was 12%, which improved significantly to 44% after surgery. The authors conclude that anterior elbow release can significantly improve the flexion posture angle and active extension of the elbow, as well as both the functional use and aesthetic appearance of the involved upper limb.

Cerebral Palsy↗

Total elbow arthroplasty for complete ankylosis of the elbow.

Sixteen patients who received nineteen semiconstrained total elbow replacements for complete ankylosis of the elbow were followed for an average of five and three-quarters years (range, two to twelve years). The average preoperative elbow score was 23 points and the average postoperative score was 84 points. Postoperatively, the average flexion was 115 degrees; extension, 35 degrees; and pronation and supination, 95 degrees. There were fifteen excellent or good results. There was one failure due to a deep infection, but after removal of the prosthesis a satisfactory fascial arthroplasty was achieved in this elbow. Function was improved in all patients, and all patients had relief of the preoperative pain. For the arthroplasty to succeed, the patient must have a good understanding of the procedure and must be willing and able to comply with the postoperative rehabilitation program. The use of a semiconstrained, often custom-fit, implant is necessary. The Bryan-Morrey posteromedial approach to the elbow is recommended for the procedure, since this approach allows early institution of range-of-motion exercises.

Adolescent↗

Orthotic devices for tennis elbow.

BACKGROUND: Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is a frequently reported condition. A wide variety of treatment strategies has been described. As of yet, no optimal strategy has been identified. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this review was to assess the effectiveness of orthotic devices for treatment of tennis elbow. SEARCH STRATEGY: An electronic database search was conducted using Medline, Embase, Cinahl, the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register, Current Contents and reference lists from all retrieved articles. Experts on the subjects were approached for additional trials. SELECTION CRITERIA: All randomised clinical trials (RCT) describing individuals with diagnosed lateral epicondylitis and comparing the use of an orthotic device as a treatment strategy were evaluated for inclusion. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Two reviewers independently assessed the validity of the included trials and extracted data on relevant outcome measures. Dichotomous outcomes were expressed as Relative Risks (RRs) and continuous outcomes as Standardised Mean Differences (SMD), both with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). Statistical pooling and subgroup analyses were intended MAIN RESULTS: Five small-size RCTs (N per group 7-49) were included. Validity score ranged from 3-9 positive items out of 11. Subgroup analyses were not performed due to the small number of trials. The limited number of included trials present few outcome measures and limited long-term results. Pooling was not possible due to large heterogeneity amongst trials. REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS: No definitive conclusions can be drawn concerning effectiveness of orthotic devices for lateral epicondylitis. More well-designed and well-conducted RCTs of sufficient power are warranted.

Humans↗

[Comparison of rheumatic and post-traumatic elbow joints after total elbow arthroplasty. Comprehensive and specific evaluation of clinical picture, function, and quality of life].

BACKGROUND: Patients with elbow destruction due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or trauma (PT) were compared to population-based normative data and to each other after total elbow arthroplasty. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Pain, function, and biopsychosocial health were multidimensionally assessed by the generic Short Form 36 (SF-36), the condition-specific Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH), and the Patient Related Elbow Evaluation form (PREE) instrument and analyzed by uni- and multivariate methods. RESULTS: Compared to normative values, the examined 59 RA patients were significantly affected in the function scales of the SF-36 and in all DASH scales. The 20 PT patients were worse than the norm only in the DASH function. Function was lower in RA than in PT in the SF-36 scales and in the DASH (RA: 44.4, PT: 70.3, p<0.001). This difference was less distinct in the PREE. CONCLUSION: Total elbow arthroplasty led to a pain-free outcome and normal quality of life, but failed to restore complete function. Functional deficits were larger in the RA patients and could also be measured by the SF-36, possibly due to polyarticular affection.

Aged↗

Combined hyperextension and supination of the elbow joint induces lateral ligament lesions. An experimental study of the pathoanatomy and kinematics in elbow ligament injuries.

An epidemiological study suggested that the injury mechanism of 'handball goalie's elbow' may be hyperextension. The pathomechanics of hyperextension combined with supination was studied in ten macroscopically normal, male, cadaveric elbow joint specimens. The age of the donors was 28.8 years (range 18-45 years). Extension loading of the elbow was performed in an experimental three-dimensional (3D)-kinematic loading apparatus. The degree of extension increased by 16.7 degrees +/- 8.7 degrees after loading. Hyperextension loads induced significant joint laxity in joint flexion (< 50 degrees) during forced valgus, external and internal rotation, respectively, but not during forced varus. The hyperextension trauma produced three lesions: (1) anterior capsule rupture, (2) avulsion of the proximal insertion of both the medial and the lateral collateral ligaments, and (3) occasional single rupture of the lateral collateral ligament. The lesions indicate that combined hyperextension and supination represent a possible mechanism leading to 'handball goalie's elbow'.

Adolescent↗

Unilateral hinged external fixator of the elbow in complex elbow injuries.

We present the outcome of treating complex injuries of the elbow with the "Orthofix" external fixator in patients where the condition of the soft tissues did not permit extensile surgical approach or where the internal fixation would not be stable enough to permit safe early joint mobilization postoperatively. Eight patients were treated, three with supra-intercondylar fracture in the presence of marked osteoporosis and five with fracture-dislocation of the elbow and excessive soft tissue impairment. The fixator was applied for a mean of 8.5 weeks (5-13 weeks). Great care was taken to use the appropriate technique in applying the fixator, especially to define the correct centre of rotation. All the fractures were united, and no instability of the joint was noted. All the patients maintained a functional range of motion, with lack of extension less than 30 degrees and flexion more than 120 degrees . One patient who developed transient palsy of the radial nerve and two patients who developed pin track infection were treated with oral antibiotics. Despite the technical difficulties, external fixation of the elbow could be a salvage procedure in difficult cases of elbow trauma, where open procedures are not indicated.

Adult↗