The Outerbridge-Kashiwaghi procedure in elbow arthroscopy.

We evaluated the results of the arthroscopic Outerbridge-Kashiwaghi procedure in a retrospective review of 20 elbows in 19 patients with a mean followup of 2 years (range : 6 months - 4 years). Range of motion improved from 94 degrees (range: 15 degrees-140 degrees) to 123 degrees (range: 110 degrees-140 degrees). Visual analogue scales for pain improved from 5.8 (range: 2 -8) to 1.8 (range: 0-8). The Mayo Performance Index increased from 54 (range: 15-85) to 88 (range: 45-100). The results were good to excellent in 16 elbows, fair in two and poor in two. Seventeen patients were better (85%), 3patients remained unchanged (15%). In elbows with severe arthritis, pain relief was minimal. The arthroscopic Outerbridge-Kashiwaghi procedure appeared in this study as a good surgical option in mild to moderate elbow arthritis, with significant pain relief and increased elbow mobility and function.