Purpose: Since an injured elbow joint can disturb the activity of daily life by limiting motion, especially if the motion is restricted over 40 degree of flexion contracture and under 105 degree of further flexion, it is imperative to select the best method and the timing of treatment of the elbow stiffness. Therefore this review will discuss open surgical techniques for stiff elbows based on the literature. Materials and Methods: It is important to take sufficient clinical examination of the patient, including history taking. And, a surgeon should select appropriate procedure after accurately understanding about the status and cause of the stiff elbow with radiographic methods. Surgical methods include arthroscopic release open release, distraction arthroplasty, total elbow replacement and there are four approachs in the open release - anterior approach, medial "over the top" approach, limited lateral approach: column procedure, posterior extensile approach-. Results and Conclusion: Although at present the arthroscopic technique is emphasized for the treatment of elbow stiffness, a surgeon should know conventional open techniques.