Arthroscopic treatment of posterior impingement of the elbow in athletes.

Arthroscopic treatment of posterior impingement of the elbow in athletes consistently can improve comfort and function. Arthroscopic treatment is particularly valuable because of increased intra-articular visualization of the anterior and posterior compartments and diminished soft tissue trauma. Arthroscopic visualization also can help the surgeon assess small pathologic changes in joint congruity seen in subtle forms of ligamentous instability, which are often symptomatic in high-demand athletes. Treatment of these subtle instabilities can be individualized to the athlete. Most athletes are able to return to the same level of their sport after arthroscopic surgery for posterior impingement of the elbow. In certain athletes, however, depending on the position played, reoperation rates are high, and return rates to the same level of competition can be less than in other athletes with posterior impingement of the elbow. Patient selection, technical expertise, and familiarity with open and arthroscopic elbow surgery are all criteria for success.