Chronic elbow dislocations: shorterm results of the “French elbow connection” technique
摘要
The aim of the present study was to describe our experience with French Elbow Connection (FEC) (i.e. elbow reduction and triple ligamentoplasty) for patients with chronic elbow dislocation (CED).
Materials and methodsWe performed a retrospective review of 12 patients in two departments of orthopaedic surgery undergoing the FEC procedure for CED between 2019 and 2024. The median follow-up was 1.80 years (IQR 1.00; 1.97). Range of motion, mean Mayo Elbow Performance score (MEPS), visual analog scale (VAS), elbow stability, and radiographic outcome were recorded.
ResultsMedian MEPS and VAS were 90.00 points (IQR 75.60; 100.00) and 0 (IQR 0; 1.50), respectively. Eight (66%) patients reported no pain. The median active flexion-extension and prono-supination arcs were 145°(IQR 102.60; 150.00), and 170°(IQR 155.03; 170.00) respectively. Persistent valgus or varus instability was identified in 2 (17%), and 1 (8%) patient respectively. Size patients (50%) were diagnosed with osteoarthritis (OA) and 1 patient experienced worsening postop OA (from grade 1(preop) to 3(postop)).
ConclusionCED is a complex condition that presents elbow surgeons with unique challenges. The FEC procedure allows for immediate active ROM and yielded satisfactory short-term outcomes in our hands. Larger, longer-term studies will be necessary to assess reproducibility and confirm results can be maintained over time.
Level of evidencelevel IV; therapeutic study (case series [no, or historical, control group])