Sideswipe injuries around the elbow: Management and functional evaluation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management
• Elbow Reconstruction

Background:

• Sideswipe injuries represent a severe subgroup of complex elbow trauma, frequently high-energy open injuries.
• Existing literature lacks a standardized management protocol, often leading to poor functional outcomes.
• This study reports the functional outcomes of patients treated for sideswipe elbow injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the functional outcomes of patients who sustained sideswipe injuries.
• To highlight the importance of a standardized, multispecialty approach in managing these complex injuries.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective evaluation of 34 patients with sideswipe elbow injuries.
• Management principles included debridement, fracture stabilization (external/internal fixation), vascular and nerve repair, and soft tissue coverage.
• Functional outcomes were assessed using the Mayo elbow performance score.

Main Results:

• The average Mayo elbow performance score was 70.
• 30% of patients achieved excellent results (score > 90).
• 33% of patients achieved good results (score 75-89).

Conclusions:

• Timely and aggressive management with a defined algorithmic protocol is crucial for optimal results in sideswipe elbow injuries.
• A multispecialty approach involving orthopedic, vascular, and plastic surgeons is essential.
• Limb salvage is achievable in the majority of cases.