Elbow Dislocation
Elbow Dislocation
What is elbow dislocation?
What is elbow dislocation?
Elbow dislocation corresponds to the displacement of the joint between the distal humerus and the olecranon (the uppermost portion of the ulna) or the head of the radius.
Associated fractures also frequently occur, which is why they are considered together in the group of elbow fracture-dislocations.
The most common pattern is the so-called terrible triad of the elbow – elbow dislocation with fracture or fracture-dislocation of the radial tachygram, fracture of the coronoid process and injury to the lateral ligamentous complex.
There are other less common patterns of bone and ligament injury that are important to identify for appropriate treatment.
How do elbow fracture-dislocations occur?
How do elbow fracture-dislocations occur?
The most common mechanism is a fall onto the extended upper limb, transmitting excessive force that leads to dislocation of the elbow. Intense pain, obvious deformity and functional incapacity are immediate, and paresthesia (tingling) and decreased sensitivity of the forearm and hand are also common.
What are the treatments for elbow fracture-dislocations?
What are the treatments for elbow fracture-dislocations?
Simple elbow dislocation can be treated by closed reduction in the emergency department and immobilization for 2 to 4 weeks. In the case of initial frank instability, or residual instability after the period of immobilization, surgical treatment with ligament reconstruction is the most valid option.
Elbow fracture-dislocations almost always require surgical treatment, with fixation of the fractures and reconstruction of the affected ligament structures. In these injuries, articulated orthoses may be useful, allowing external stabilization and early mobility simultaneously.
For more information, see our Advanced Treatments .
