Basic principles of examination and treatment of patients with post-traumatic heterotopic ossifications in the elbow joint

Results of complex examination and treatment of 103 patients, aged 4-14, with posttraumatic heterotopic ossificates in the elbow zone are presented. Clinical, radiologic, electrophysiologic, radioisotopic, biomechanical, termovision and morphologic methods were used. Depending on the extent of the pathological process the ossificates resection was performed with either simple or expanded arthrolysis of the elbow joint. Expanded arthrolysis included the formation of fossae and through canal in the distal humerus, open reduction or resection of the radius head. Long term follow up showed good and satisfactory functional and anatomical results in 89.3% and 85.7% of cases, respectively. The mean range of motion in elbow joints increased by 57°. Recurrent ossificates were observed only in 4.6%) of patients.