[Functional anatomy of the elbow joint]

An attempt has been made to describe the combined action of the bony elements of the elbow joint, together with the capsular ligaments, as a single unit. Particular emphasis is laid upon the mechanisms that prevent abrupt limitation of movement. The account of the periarticular structures, including the adjacent muscles, is followed by a discussion of the various possible surgical approaches to the joint. Finally, a general survey is given of the kinematics and kinetics of the elbow joint. It is suggested that the distribution of the hyaline articular cartilage and the density of the underlying bone are morphological reflections of the stresses acting upon the joint. It follows that the axial pressure acts upon both the ulnar and the radial components of the elbow; therefore, if the joint is to remain stable, at least one of its distal bony elements must be functionally effective.