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- Talk
- Canada
Arthroscopy Management of Post-Traumatic Contracture of the Elbow
Description
The transcript appears to be from a surgical presentation discussing the technical aspects of elbow arthroscopy, particularly in the context of treating post-traumatic arthritis. The speaker, J Pollock, opens by thanking the audience and clarifying that he has no disclosures related to the topic. He describes the surgical indications and stresses the importance of non-operative management if there is no significant change in the patient's condition over a three-month period, particularly in cases of range of motion loss.
Pollock elaborates on the challenges of arthroscopic release for post-traumatic arthritis as it involves intra-articular adhesions that complicate the procedure. He emphasizes that the correct positioning of the patient and the specific instruments used are crucial for a successful outcome. He discusses portal placements for accessing the elbow joint, pointing out that a higher portal placement is safer anatomically.
Throughout the presentation, Pollock uses case studies, including one on osteoarthritis with similar treatment principles to post-traumatic cases. He highlights the significance of CT scans for pre-operative planning, especially in identifying loose bodies and osteophytes within the joint.
Pollock provides a detailed walkthrough of the surgical procedure, including capsular distension, joint cleaning, and the removal of osteophytes and scar tissue. He notes that specific techniques, such as the switch stick technique for portal switching, enhance safety, particularly in tight anatomical spaces.
The presentation concludes with Pollock summarizing the learning curve involved in treating post-traumatic stiffness and the importance of establishing correct portal positions to prevent complications. He reiterates not hesitating to convert to open surgery if necessary, highlighting the nuanced balance between arthroscopic and open surgical techniques in managing complex elbow conditions.