Elbow Dislocations

Figure 19.1

Radiographs of acutely dislocated elbows. Note the variety of associated fracture patterns, each of which confers variable resistance to reduction and offers differing degrees of stability after reduction

Imaging the bone/joint “above and below” the dislocation is important to look for other dislocations or fractures.

Postreduction CT scan of the elbow is only indicated if there is concern for fracture, if there are loose bodies within the joint preventing concentric reduction, or if the reduction is not anatomic.

Effective Communication

1.

Direction of dislocation (based on direction of the ulna compared to the humerus)
2.

Neurovascular status
3.

Stability after reduction
4.

Simple (no fracture) versus complex (fracture)