What is this thing?

I've had this in the backyard for years and it's getting unwieldy. Anyone know what it is? Note unusual protusions on the stems of old growth.
New growth:


Old growth:

 

Can't see the leaf margins very well, but it looks sort of like Ulmus alata.

 

Winged Spindle Euonymus alatus.

 

Bingo! Euonymus alatus it is.

It's difficult to control and cut back; any hints?

 

Cut down to ground periodically at end of winter, say every two or three years. Grows back quickly, with natural shape - unlike when parts of branches are cut off, producing unattractive structure.