Elbow dislocation secondary to fall during police arrest.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Emergency Medicine
• Forensic Medicine

Background:

• Elbow dislocations are common orthopedic emergencies.
• Vascular compromise associated with elbow dislocations requires urgent management.
• The specific mechanism of injury during police arrest has not been previously documented.

Observation:

• A detainee sustained a fall during arrest, resulting in a left total elbow dislocation.
• Significant swelling and loss of distal pulses were noted post-injury.
• The patient was handcuffed with the arm in a flexed position.

Findings:

• Reduction of the elbow dislocation was successfully performed under sedation.
• Post-reduction angiography revealed injury to the tissues adjacent to the brachial artery.
• This case highlights a unique injury pattern associated with law enforcement encounters.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing elbow dislocations with vascular compromise, even in unusual circumstances.
• It suggests that arrest procedures should be mindful of potential orthopedic and vascular injuries.
• Further awareness may be needed among law enforcement and medical professionals regarding this specific injury mechanism.