Bone and Joint Institute
In Vitro Kinematic Assessment of a Hinged Elbow Orthosis Following Lateral Collateral Ligament Injury
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2018
Journal
Journal of Hand Surgery
Volume
43
Issue
2
First Page
123
Last Page
132
URL with Digital Object Identifier
10.1016/j.jhsa.2017.09.021
Abstract
© 2018 American Society for Surgery of the Hand Purpose: Elbow lateral collateral ligament injuries (LCLI) are often managed with protected mobilization using a hinged elbow orthosis (HEO). The objective of this investigation was to determine the effectiveness of an HEO in stabilizing the elbow following LCLI. Methods: Seven fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremity specimens were studied using a custom simulator that enabled elbow motion via computer-controlled actuators and servomotors attached to relevant tendons. Specimens were examined in 4 arm positions (dependent, overhead, horizontal, and varus) and 2 forearm positions (pronation and supination) during both passive and simulated active elbow extension. Specimens were examined before and after simulated LCLI, and then with the addition of an HEO. The lateral collateral ligament, common extensor origin, and lateral elbow capsule were sectioned in the injury model. An electromagnetic tracking system measured ulnohumeral kinematics. Results: The orthosis did not change elbow stability in any arm position during active motion. Muscle activation and forearm pronation enhanced stability in the dependent, horizontal, and varus positions while the HEO was applied. Conclusions: This HEO does not improve the in vitro stability of the elbow following simulated LCLI. Clinical relevance: An HEO may be safe to use during active motion, but when a patient is not activating the muscles normally (ie, owing to fatigue or cognitive impairment) and the arm is in positions in which the weight of the orthosis might increase joint distraction, an HEO may be harmful. If an HEO is used, the forearm should be braced in pronation following LCLI.
Notes
This article is freely available from the journal