Abstract: ObjectiveTo compare the effect of the rehabilitation in early and late stage postoperatively for the fractures of the elbow. MethodsAccording to the time the rehabilitation intervened, 57 cases were divided into the early group (29 cases) and the late group (28 cases). After systematic rehabilitation, the two groups were evaluated with Mayo Elbow-Performance and range of motion (ROM). The incidence of elbow disorder was compared between groups a year after fracture. ResultsThe Mayo scores (P＜0.01) and ROM (P＜0.05) improved more in the early groups than in the late groups, and the incidence of elbow disorder was less a year later (P＜0.05). ConclusionEarly postoperative rehabilitation for the fractures of the elbow joint could facilitate function restoration.

Key words: fracture of the elbow, rehabilitation, Mayo Elbow-Performance, range of motor