Question 1

What is an elbow dislocation?

Accepted Answer

Elbow dislocation occurs when the bones of the forearm (radius and ulna) separate from the upper arm bone (humerus). Usually the forearm dislocates backwards (posterior dislocation - 90% of cases). It's the second most common major joint dislocation in adults after shoulder. Happens from high-energy trauma like falls, sports, or accidents. Important distinction: simple dislocation (no fracture) vs complex fracture-dislocation (associated fractures present in 50-60%). Complex dislocations are more serious, require surgery, and have worse outcomes.

Question 2

How serious is an elbow dislocation?

Accepted Answer

Very serious injury requiring emergency treatment. Complications include: nerve injury (10-20%, usually ulnar nerve), artery damage (rare but serious - less than 1%), associated fractures (50-60%), chronic instability (5-10%), stiffness (almost universal - most lose 5-15 degrees extension), heterotopic ossification (abnormal bone formation, 5-10%), chronic pain, and arthritis (long-term). Unlike some dislocations, elbow dislocations often result in permanent functional impairment. Best outcomes require prompt reduction, appropriate treatment, and intensive rehabilitation.

Question 3

What's the difference between simple and complex elbow dislocations?

Accepted Answer

Simple dislocation: ligaments torn but no fractures. Treatment is closed reduction, brief immobilization (1-2 weeks), then early motion. Good outcomes in 80-90%. Complex fracture-dislocation: dislocation plus associated fractures (coronoid, radial head, or olecranon). Requires surgery to fix fractures and sometimes repair ligaments. 'Terrible triad' is specific pattern: elbow dislocation + radial head fracture + coronoid fracture - very unstable and challenging to treat. Complex dislocations have worse outcomes with higher rates of stiffness, instability, and need for additional surgery.

Question 4

Will I regain full elbow movement?

Accepted Answer

Most people do NOT regain completely normal elbow motion after dislocation. Expected outcomes: 80-90% of normal range, with most common loss being 5-15 degrees of full extension (straightening). Functional range for daily activities is 30-130 degrees, so mild loss of terminal extension usually doesn't affect function. Factors affecting recovery: simple vs complex, how early physiotherapy starts, compliance with exercises, age (younger = better), and development of heterotopic ossification. Complex dislocations may lose 20-30 degrees of motion. Stiffness is the most common long-term complication.

Question 5

What is heterotopic ossification and how common is it?

Accepted Answer

Heterotopic ossification (HO) is abnormal bone formation in soft tissues around the elbow after injury. Occurs in 5-10% of simple dislocations, 20-30% of complex dislocations. Risk factors: severe injury, delayed treatment, prolonged immobilization, aggressive passive stretching, head injury or burns. Causes increased stiffness and pain. Prevention: early motion, indomethacin for first 6 weeks (anti-inflammatory that prevents HO), radiation therapy in severe cases. If severe HO develops causing major functional limitation, surgical excision can be considered after 12-18 months when bone 'matures'. This is why early controlled motion is emphasized.

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Dislocated Elbow

📖What is Dislocated Elbow?

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