Open reduction for late-presenting posterior dislocation of the elbow

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology

Background:

• Late-presenting posterior elbow dislocations often result in significant elbow stiffness and non-functional movement.
• Surgical intervention may be necessary for patients experiencing limitations in daily living activities due to unreduced dislocations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the outcomes of open reduction for late-presenting posterior elbow dislocations (occurring over 3 weeks post-injury).

Main Methods:

• The study included 10 patients with a mean age of 34 years and a mean time since injury of 4 months.
• Elbow stiffness was the primary indication for surgery; 3 patients had associated fractures.
• Open reduction was performed to address the unreduced dislocations.

Main Results:

• At a mean follow-up of 19 months, 80% of patients regained functional elbow movement.
• Patients achieved a median arc of flexion of 100 degrees and supination-pronation of 140 degrees.
• Mayo Elbow Performance Index scores indicated excellent results in 5 patients, good in 3, and poor in 2. Complications included pin site infection, ulnar neuritis, and delayed wound healing.

Conclusions:

• Open reduction is an effective treatment for late-presenting posterior elbow dislocations, even up to 6 months post-injury.
• The procedure can restore the elbow joint to a painless, stable, and functional state.
• Restoration of function enables patients to perform activities of daily living.