Surgical and non-surgical treatment for dislocation of the elbow
Last updated Friday, July 29, 2005
Review of the conditionWhat are some general characteristics of simple and complex elbow dislocations.? What are its usual manifestations? The elbow is an inherently stable joint. Dislocation usually occurs as
a result of a significant event, such as a fall or car accident.
Patients with dislocated elbows usually experience considerable pain,
obvious deformity and swelling. They may also experience numbness or
tingling in their hand after injury.What are the different types of simple and complex elbow dislocations.? The two general types of elbow dislocation are:
1. Simple
elbow dislocation: The radius and ulna articulate with the humerus at
the elbow. When the radius and ulna become dissociated from the
humerus without associated fracture, this injury is called a simple
dislocation. Typically the radius and ulna move behind the humerus.
2.
Complex elbow dislocation: This injury is a simple dislocation
combined with a fracture of the humerus, radius, ulna or a combination
of all three bones.
What else might be confused with or similar to simple and complex elbow dislocations.? How can these be distinguished from the condition? Small elbow fractures associated with dislocations can be missed on
x-rays (radiographs) so the images must be carefully reviewed. The
diagnosis of any associated fractures is important in deciding the
appropriate management of the injury.How common is simple and complex elbow dislocations. (statistics, demographics, risk factors)? The elbow is the second most common major joint (after the shoulder) to experience dislocation.How is simple and complex elbow dislocations. diagnosed? What tests or exams may be used? The clinician must obtain a complete patient history and information
about the accident including time of injury, mechanism, and associated
injuries. Next, the entire upper extremity is examined. The skin is
inspected for swelling, bruising, open wounds, and obvious deformity.
The joint is then examined by feeling and pressing (palpitating) for
tenderness. A detailed examination of the nerves (median, radial,
ulnar) crossing the elbow must be done. An assessment of the vascular
status of the arm is mandatory. Plain radiographs are then performed to
define the injury.Can exercises help simple and complex elbow dislocations.? Exercises are the mainstay of treatment after reduction and/or surgery
for elbow dislocations and/or fracture-dislocations. Rehabilitation is
essential in either the surgical or non-surgical treatment of elbow
fracture-dislocations. After closed reduction, exercises to improve
range of motion must be performed. After surgery, exercise is an
essential part of rehabilitation and a key component of a successful
treatment outcome.Specifically, how is simple and complex elbow dislocations. improved by ? Simple elbow dislocations are associated with damage to the ligaments
around the elbow. Typically these dislocations heal uneventfully
without surgery. However, in rare instances, if the elbow remains
unstable (i.e. re-dislocates partially or completely), surgery may be
required.
Complex dislocations often remain unstable following
closed reduction. In these cases, surgery to repair the fractures and
ligaments is often required to restore stability to the joint.
Surgery for Simple and complex elbow dislocations. at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.
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