The surgical treatment of elbow ectopic ossification associated with elbow
stiffness has progressed significantly in the past decade. Although previou
s reports describe inconsistent results and high complication rates, numero
us recent reports document not only good results, but also lower complicati
on rates. The current study outlines the authors' treatment of patients wit
h ectopic bone about the elbow. Various modalities have been used for proph
ylaxis against elbow ectopic ossification in the patient with elbow trauma.
However, despite these prophylaxis efforts, periarticular ossification may
form and result in disabling elbow stiffness. If ectopic ossification and
stiffness develop, operative intervention may be indicated to restore motio
n. It has been long suggested that operative intervention be delayed for at
least 1 year, with earlier intervention thought to predispose to recurrenc
e. Recent reports, however, have documented good results with earlier inter
vention, from 3 to 6 months after injury. The evaluation of posttraumatic e
lbow stiffness associated with ectopic ossification is described, followed
by a discussion regarding anatomic and functional classifications. Surgery
is based on multiple factors including the location of ectopic ossification
, the plane(s) of elbow stiffness, and the presence of associated nerve com
pression. A limited or extended Kocher approach may be used to release most
contractures; however, other approaches may be necessary, Surgical techniq
ue is described in detail. Meticulous surgical technique is necessary to av
oid complications, including triceps avulsion, recurrent elbow stiffness, a
nd hematoma.