Abstract:Objective To investigate the clinical results of arthroscopic surgery on the stiffness of the elbow joint caused by intrinsic factors.Methods From May 2013 to May 2016,21 cases of elbow stiffness caused by intrinsic factors were treated by arthroscopic surgery in the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University,including 13 male and 8 femal.The patients were 17 to 64 years old,with an average age of (41.8±7.1) years,and a retrospective analysis was carried out.Articular capsule contracture was released under arthroscopy,synovium hyperplasia was cleared,free body was removed,and osteophytes hyperplasia was cleaned by grinding.Patients with ulnar nerve compression syndrome were pretreated with ulnar nerve release.The range of motion (ROM) before and after surgery was observed and compared,and the rehabilitation of elbow function was evaluated by Mayo scoring system.Results All surgeries were successful and followed up for 9 to 26 months,with an average of (15.4±10.7) months.The average maximum flexion and extension range of elbow joint was (63.7±22.3) degree before operation and (106.5±32.8)degree after operation.After the operation,the score of Mayo elbow joint functional system was improved (28.5±6.2),eight patients got an excellent result,10 good and 3 fair.There were no nerve or vascular injury,no infection,ectopic ossification,thrombosis and other complications,and the postoperative pain and joint activity were significantly improved.Conclusion Arthroscopic surgery of the elbow joint caused by intrinsic factors can effectively improve the elbow joint activity and the function of the elbow joint.It is a safe and effective treatment,and the curative effect is satisfactory.