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Onggo JR, Chua NSH, Onggo JD, Wang KK, Ek ET. Clinical Outcomes Following Surgical Management of Post-Traumatic Elbow Contractures in the Pediatric Age Group: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review. J Hand Surg Am 2024:S0363-5023(24)00026-1. [PMID: 38416094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Post-traumatic elbow stiffness is a common occurrence resulting in potentially substantial functional limitations in both daily activities and recreational endeavors. In children, this can be particularly difficult given the early stages of childhood and development and the challenges of rehabilitation. Several studies have reported favorable results of elbow contracture releases in children, resulting in improvements in outcomes. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of elbow contracture releases in the pediatric population (<18 years), along with subgroup analyses comparing age groups, operative approach, and post-traumatic versus nontraumatic etiologies. METHODS Meta-analysis was performed with a multidatabase search (PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, and Medline) according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on September 25, 2020. Data from all published literature meeting inclusion criteria were extracted and analyzed. RESULTS Seven studies were included, comprising 114 post-traumatic elbow contractures. Mean age was 13.7 years. Contracture releases of the elbow led to improvements in flexion-extension arc of motion by 48º, and pronosupination arc of motion by 22º. Subgroup analysis comparing age groups of <10, 10-14 and 15-18 years showed greater improvements in flexion-extension arc in the older age group, whereas subgroup analysis comparing injury patterns revealed a larger improvement in pronosupination motion for radial head fractures. Comparing open and arthroscopic procedures, open releases had greater improvement in both flexion-extension and pronosupination motion by 18º and 21º, respectively, although there were limited patients in the arthroscopy group. CONCLUSION Operative management of pediatric elbow contractures is effective. Older children, children with radial head fractures, and those receiving open contracture releases may be more likely to have greater improvements. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- James R Onggo
- Department of Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Box Hill Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nina S H Chua
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Box Hill Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason D Onggo
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Box Hill Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kemble K Wang
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Box Hill Hospital, Victoria, Australia; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Royal Children's Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Eugene T Ek
- Department of Surgery, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Melbourne Orthopaedic Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Luo W, Nixon M. Surgical management of the spastic elbow. Shoulder Elbow 2023; 15:534-543. [PMID: 37811394 PMCID: PMC10557929 DOI: 10.1177/17585732221102399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Background We performed a retrospective review of patients undergoing surgery for elbow spasticity. We present our findings and expected outcomes according to degree of elbow fixed flexion contracture. Methods Data collected included age, Modified Ashworth Score, pre and post-operative range of motion, indications for surgery and the Goal Attainment Score. Contracture severity was classified into five groups based on goniometric measurements. Surgical procedures were categorised into three groups. Results A total of 114 elbows underwent surgical release. The mean age at surgery was 18.5 years and the mean follow-up was 20 months. Preoperatively, the median Modified Ashworth Score was 2 and the mean contracture was 68° (35° fixed and 33° dynamic). The median number of structures released was 3 (range: 1-6). Surgical procedures were classified as biceps sparing (27%), biceps lengthening (53%) and extended releases (18%). Mean improvement in extension was 59°, and the mean improvement in Goal Attainment Score was 36 (mean attainment score 62). The mean residual contracture was 9°. Patient satisfaction was high with over 90% of surgical indications met. Discussion Contracture severity of the spastic elbow can be categorised by degree of fixed flexion deformity and therefore treatment can be allocated accordingly.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Matthew Nixon
- Countess of Chester Hospital, Chester, UK
- Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester, UK
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Loewenstein SN, Angulo-Parker F, Timsina L, Adkinson J. Barriers to Upper Extremity Reconstruction for Patients With Cerebral Palsy. Hand (N Y) 2022; 17:926-932. [PMID: 33319587 PMCID: PMC9465801 DOI: 10.1177/1558944720976413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reconstructive surgery for upper extremity manifestations of cerebral palsy (CP) has been demonstrated to be safe and effective, yet many potential candidates are never evaluated for surgery. The purpose of this study was to determine barriers to upper extremity reconstruction for patients with CP in a cohort of upper extremity surgeons and nonsurgeons. METHODS We sent a questionnaire to 4167 surgeons and nonsurgeon physicians, aggregated responses, and analyzed for differences in perceptions regarding surgical efficacy, patient candidacy for surgery, compliance with rehabilitation, remuneration, complexity of care, and physician comfort providing care. RESULTS Surgeons and nonsurgeons did not agree on the literature support of surgical efficacy (73% vs 35% agree or strongly agree, respectively). Both surgeons and nonsurgeons felt that many potential candidates exist, yet there was variability in their confidence in identifying them. Most surgeons (59%) and nonsurgeons (61%) felt comfortable performing surgery and directing the associated rehabilitation, respectively. Neither group reported that patient compliance, access to rehabilitation services, and available financial resources were a major barrier, but surgeons were more likely than nonsurgeons to feel that remuneration for services was inadequate (37% vs 13%). Both groups agreed that surgical treatments are complex and should be performed in the setting of a multidisciplinary team. CONCLUSIONS Surgeons and nonsurgeons differ in their views regarding upper extremity reconstructive surgery for CP. Barriers to reconstruction may be addressed by performing higher level research, implementing multispecialty educational outreach, developing objective referral criteria, increasing surgical remuneration, improving access to trained upper extremity surgeons, and implementing multidisciplinary CP clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lava Timsina
- Indiana University School of Medicine,
Indianapolis, USA
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Martinez-Lozano E, Beeram I, Yeritsyan D, Grinstaff MW, Snyder BD, Nazarian A, Rodriguez EK. Management of arthrofibrosis in neuromuscular disorders: a review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:725. [PMID: 35906570 PMCID: PMC9336011 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05677-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis, or rigid contracture of major articular joints, is a significant morbidity of many neurodegenerative disorders. The pathogenesis depends on the mechanism and severity of the precipitating neuromuscular disorder. Most neuromuscular disorders, whether spastic or hypotonic, culminate in decreased joint range of motion. Limited range of motion precipitates a cascade of pathophysiological changes in the muscle-tendon unit, the joint capsule, and the articular cartilage. Resulting joint contractures limit functional mobility, posing both physical and psychosocial burdens to patients, economic burdens on the healthcare system, and lost productivity to society. This article reviews the pathophysiology of arthrofibrosis in the setting of neuromuscular disorders. We describe current non-surgical and surgical interventions for treating arthrofibrosis of commonly affected joints. In addition, we preview several promising modalities under development to ameliorate arthrofibrosis non-surgically and discuss limitations in the field of arthrofibrosis secondary to neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith Martinez-Lozano
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Indeevar Beeram
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Diana Yeritsyan
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Mark W Grinstaff
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Medicine, Boston University, 330 Brookline Avenue, Stoneman 10, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Brian D Snyder
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ara Nazarian
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, 0025, Armenia
| | - Edward K Rodriguez
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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The Spastic Upper Extremity in Children: Multilevel Surgical Decision-making. J Am Acad Orthop Surg 2021; 29:e416-e426. [PMID: 33883454 DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-20-00719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Multilevel surgery for upper extremity spasticity is the current surgical standard. While the literature details surgical techniques and outcomes, a comprehensive guide to surgical planning is lacking. Patients commonly present with posturing into shoulder internal rotation, elbow flexion, forearm pronation, wrist flexion with ulnar deviation, finger flexion, and thumb adduction, although variations exist. Multiple surgical options exist for each segment; therefore, repeated examinations for contracture, pathologic laxity, and out of phase activity are necessary to optimize the surgical plan. To avoid decreasing function, one must carefully balance the benefits of contracture release and tendon transfers with their weakening effects. In certain cases, stability from joint fusion outweighs the loss of motion. Failure to recognize dynamic posturing, grasp and release requirements, or hand intrinsic spasticity can worsen function and cause new deformities. Surgical indications are formulated for individual deformity patterns and severity along with personal/family goals. General comprehension, voluntary control, and sensation, although not modifiable, influence decision making and are prognostic indicators. Functional improvement is unlikely without preexisting voluntary control, but appearance and visual feedback may be improved by repositioning nonetheless. Appropriate interventions and management of expectations will optimize limb appearance and function while avoiding unexpected sequelae.
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Abstract
Upper extremity contractures in the spastic patient may result from muscle spasticity, secondary muscle contracture, or joint contracture. Knowledge of the underlying cause is critical in planning successful treatment. Initial management consists of physical therapy and splinting. Botulinum toxin can be helpful, as a therapeutic treatment in relieving spasticity and as a diagnostic tool in determining the underlying cause of the contracture. Surgical management options include release or lengthening of the causative muscle/tendon unit and joint capsular release, as required. Postoperative splinting is important to maintain the improved range of motion and protect any associated tendon lengthening or transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristi S Wood
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Aaron Daluiski
- Department of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 535 East 70th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA; Department of Hand and Upper Extremity, Hospital for Special Surgery, 523 East 72nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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Abstract
Surgical interventions for the spastic upper extremity aim to correct the common deformities of elbow flexion, forearm pronation, wrist flexion and ulnar deviation, and thumb-in-palm deformity. One goal is achieving optimal function and improved limb positioning. Aesthetics of the limb have a profound impact on self-esteem and satisfaction. Surgical deformity correction has not reliably been shown to improve sensory function such as stereognosis. Validated outcome measures are used to present outcomes after surgical treatment of the spastic upper extremity as it relates to motor function and limb positioning, sensory function, and self-esteem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneva V Tranchida
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, 2450 Riverside Avenue South, Suite R200, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Ann E Van Heest
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, 2450 Riverside Avenue South, Suite R200, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (hCP) exhibit a typical posture of elbow flexion during gait. However, the change in elbow kinematics and symmetry during gait across age span in both hCP and typically developing (TD) children is not well described. The aim of this study was to quantify the change in elbow kinematics and symmetry across age span in hCP children compared with TD children. METHODS Upper extremity kinematic data were extracted and analyzed from a database for gait studies performed between 2009 and 2015. A total of 35 hCP and 51 TD children between the ages of 4 and 18 (mean age: TD=11.2±0.6, hCP=9.8±0.5) met inclusionary criteria. The groups were further subdivided into 3 age categories: 4 to 7, 8 to 11, 12+ years old. Elbow angles were extracted and peak elbow flexion, overall range of motion during gait, and asymmetry indices were calculated. A 1-way analysis of variance was performed on each group with post hoc Tukey honestly significant difference pairwise comparisons. RESULTS Peak elbow flexion during gait increased with age in TD children (P<0.05) and decreased with age in hCP children on the affected side (P<0.05). There was no change on the less affected side of hCP children. TD children demonstrated significantly less elbow flexion (mean=51.9±2.1 deg.) compared with the affected side in hCP (mean=82.1±3.8 deg.) across all age categories (P<0.05). There was no change in elbow asymmetry index (0=perfect symmetry) across age in either controls or hCP children; however, there were differences between hCP and TD groups in younger age groups (TD=28, hCP=62, P<0.05) that resolved by adolescence (TD=32, hCP=40). CONCLUSIONS During gait, hCP children have greater peak elbow flexion on the affected side than do TD children. Peak elbow flexion angle converged between the 2 groups with age, decreasing in hCP children and increasing in TD children. Furthermore, elbow symmetry during gait improves with age in hCP children, approximating symmetry of TD children by adolescence. These findings have implications for both consideration and optimal timing of surgical intervention to improve elbow flexion in children with hCP. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III-retrospective case-control study.
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Gong HS, Cho HE, Chung CY, Park MS, Lee HJ, Baek GH. Early results of anterior elbow release with and without biceps lengthening in patients with cerebral palsy. J Hand Surg Am 2014; 39:902-9. [PMID: 24674610 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2013] [Revised: 02/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the effect of partial biceps lengthening on elbow flexion posture and active elbow flexion and extension in patients with cerebral palsy. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 29 patients with cerebral palsy who underwent anterior elbow release as part of multilevel upper extremity surgery. The early series of the patients (N = 14; group 1) had lacertus fibrosus division, brachialis fractional lengthening, and denuding of the pretendinous adventitia off the biceps tendon. The later series of patients (N = 15; group 2) had partial biceps tendon lengthening in addition to the procedures in group 1. We compared the 2 sets of patients for elbow flexion posture, active elbow flexion and extension, forearm rotation, and House scores, with mean follow-ups of 72 months for group 1 and 31 months for group 2. RESULTS The 2 groups were comparable in terms of mean age, number of procedures, and preoperative House scores. Group 2 patients had more improvement in flexion posture (53° vs. 44°) and active extension (23° vs. 15°) than group 1 postoperatively. However, group 2 had a mean decrease of 7° in active elbow flexion, whereas group 1 had no changes. There was no difference in forearm supination or in the improvement of House scores between groups. CONCLUSIONS Early results of partial lengthening of the biceps tendon showed that it may improve elbow flexion posture and active elbow extension in patients with flexion deformity in cerebral palsy. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Therapeutic III.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Sik Gong
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
| | - Hoyune Esther Cho
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Chin Youb Chung
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Moon Seok Park
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyuk Jin Lee
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Goo Hyun Baek
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seongnam, Korea; Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY; Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
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