Functional Outcomes of Neglected Posterior Elbow Dislocations Treated with Open Reduction, Arthrolysis, and Hinged External Fixation

Background: Neglected posterior elbow dislocations are challenging due to stiffness, soft tissue contracture, and associated fractures. Optimal management remains controversial, especially in chronic cases (Gavrilă et al., 2025; Tong et al., 2025). Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 18 patients with neglected posterior elbow dislocations treated with open reduction and arthrolysis with or without triceps lengthening between January 2024 and May 2025. All patients underwent stabilization using a hinged external fixator. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS). Mean follow-up was 6 months. Results: The mean age was 34 years, with a mean dislocation duration of 54 days. Postoperatively, flexion ranged from 100° to 130°. The mean MEPS was 85.58, with 8 excellent, 6 good, and 4 fair outcomes. Most patients achieved satisfactory functional range of motion with minimal pain. No instability was observed. Conclusion: Open reduction with arthrolysis and hinged external fixation provides reliable functional outcomes in neglected posterior elbow dislocations. Early mobilization is key to restoring motion and function (Coulibaly et al., 2012; Pranata et al., 2025; Tong et al., 2025).

Keywords: Dislocation; Elbow; Neglected; Chronic; Open Reduction; Hinged external fixator; Ligament reconstruction.