[Entrapment of the median nerve after neglected dislocation of the elbow: a case report]

Entrapment of the median nerve is a rare complication following dislocation of the elbow. The authors report a case of incarceration of the median nerve in a neglected dislocation of the elbow in an 18-year-old right-handed boy. The patient sustained a closed injury of the right elbow during a game. The initial treatment was performed by a traditional bonesetter and consisted of attempts at reduction followed by immobilization in extension. There was persistent pain and limitation of movement in the elbow and paraesthesiae in the long finger. This led the patient to consult us at 45 days postinjury. Radiographs showed a posterolateral dislocation of the elbow. Surgical reduction was carried out 6 months posttrauma. After opening of the capsule, we discovered the median nerve blocking the olecranon fossa, passing at the level of the groove of the trochlea where it was wedged between the latter anteriorly and the olecranon posteriorly before resuming its normal course. Reduction was obtained and the nerve replaced in its normal position. The postoperative course was uneventful with disappearance of the paresthesiae and restoration of a good range of movement of the elbow. The authors discuss the mechanism, the clinical forms and propose a new type according to the classification of Fourrier.