Almost completely stiffened elbow - mobility restored through targeted surgery
After an accident and initial surgery, a patient’s elbow remained completely immobile. The joint surface had healed at a nearly right angle and could no longer be moved actively or passively. The patient could no longer use his arm properly-neither while eating nor in everyday life, nor at work.
Causes of stiffening
A stiff elbow (medically: frozen elbow) can occur after injuries, operations or inflammation. In this case, the joint had hardened in an unfavorable position after the first operation. The cause was a combination of internal adhesions (known as arthrofibrosis), joint adhesions and capsular contractures – i.e. shrinkage and hardening of the joint capsule.
Targeted operational solution
The aim of the operation was to restore mobility to the elbow. To do this, the fused structures in the joint were carefully loosened and excess scar tissue and the joint capsule were removed. The operation requires the utmost precision, as there are important nerves and blood vessels in the area around the elbow.
After the operation, targeted follow-up treatment with physiotherapy was carried out to stabilize and further improve the regained mobility
Result: significant improvement in mobility
The result of the operation was very pleasing. The previously almost completely stiffened elbow could be significantly mobilized. The patient was once again able to perform everyday movements and thus regained a great deal of quality of life
When does surgery make sense?
Surgical mobilization of the elbow can be useful if conservative measures – such as physiotherapy – do not bring sufficient improvement. It is important to carry out a precise diagnosis to identify the cause of the stiffness and to plan the procedure individually.
My practice in Vienna specializes in function-preserving and reconstructive procedures on the elbow. If you suffer from restricted movement or do not feel any improvement after an accident, I will be happy to advise you personally.
Medical terms used:
Elbow stiffness – Condition in which the elbow joint can no longer move or can only move to a limited extent.
Arthrofibrosis – Excessive scarring in the joint, which leads to pain and restricted movement.
Capsular contracture – Shrinkage and hardening of the joint capsule, which constricts the joint.
