Internal bracing in the treatment of elbow instabilities

Abstract

AbstractInternal bracing is an augmentation of ligament repair or reconstruction using a non-absorbable suture tape. The suture reinforcement of the ligament is intended to absorb the forces applied to the joint while the ligament repair or reconstruction underneath is healing. The rigidity of the construct is expected to improve primary stability, which should facilitate and accelerate postoperative mobilization and rehabilitation. Nevertheless, internal bracing is a novel treatment and data is limited. Therefore, this review describes the surgical techniques and provides an overview of the current literature regarding acute and chronic instabilities of the medial and lateral elbow treated with internal bracing.