Elbow flexion analysis in Bristow patients: A preliminary report

Seven male nonathletes who had Bristow procedures for shoulder dislocation were analyzed by dynamic electromyography (EMG) and Cybex strength measure ment to evaluate the function of elbow flexion. Bilateral strength of elbow flexion also was measured in the 10 controlled subjects to compare the dominant and non- dominant arms. The EMG data showed the operated short head of biceps function at low constant intensity, compared with the nonoperated side, while the long head of biceps and brachialis increased their activity. The strength measured by the Cybex demonstrated the elbow flexion on the operated side was not signifi cantly different from the normal group. These data demonstrated that the Bristow procedure reduced the dynamic response of the short biceps which was com pensated for by the increase in level of activity of the long heads and brachialis muscle. As a result, normal range of elbow function was restored. Our patients had had intense rehabilitation programs. This appears to be an essential part of the postoperative management to develop the needed compensatory muscle action.