A lateral approach was used to release a post-traumatic contracture of
the elbow in seven patients, and the results were evaluated an average of
thirty-eight months postoperatively. Extension improved from an average
flexion contracture of 45 degrees preoperatively to one of 12 degrees
postoperatively, and the average point of maximum flexion increased from
116 degrees preoperatively to 129 degrees postoperatively. The average arc
of motion increased 46 degrees. All patients began using a
continuous-passive-motion device immediately after the operation. There
were no problems with wound-healing or formation of heterotopic bone.