Handheld Osteotomes Facilitate Arthroscopic Treatment of Elbow Valgus Extension Overload.

Abstract

Arthroscopic elbow surgery can be difficult due to the highly congruent nature of the joint and the surrounding neurovascular and ligamentous structures at risk. In a patient with valgus extension overload, posterior medial olecranon osteophytes must be removed safely to restore range of motion and alleviate pain. Arthroscopic burrs and shavers create significant debris, therefore limiting visualization, and their use has inherent risks to the surrounding structures that need to be preserved. Small, handheld osteotomes can facilitate the safe and efficient removal of these posterior medial osteophytes while preserving normal bone and articular cartilage.