Surgical Management of Spasticity of the Elbow

A spastic limb refers to one with increased tone, which commonly results from an upper motor neuron injury, which, in turn, leads to disinhibition of reflex arcs. At the level of the elbow, affected individuals typically exhibit a flexion posture secondary to spastic contracture of the biceps, brachialis, and brachioradialis muscles. Surgical treatment aims to improve access for hygiene, function, and cosmetic appearance of the affected limb. The specific surgical intervention performed depends on the degree of elbow flexion contracture and whether there is an associated joint contracture or soft tissue deficit.