Operative treatment of traumatic dislocation of the elbow joint is
indicated when there is proved gross instability or osteochondral fractures
and loose bodies, or both. We performed a capsule-ligament repair in
twenty-eight patients, and no cast was applied postoperatively.
Satisfactory results were achieved with an average follow-up of two and
one-half months. In all patients postoperative assisted range-of-motion
exercise was begun after the operative wound and healed. The functional
outcome depended on the osseous lesions involving the articular surface and
on the time interval between the accident and the operation.