Current Approach to the Management of Forearm and Elbow Dislocations in Children

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Pediatric orthopedic injuries frequently necessitate emergency department visits.
• Prompt management is crucial for specific upper extremity injuries in children.

Purpose of the Study:

• To sequentially discuss radial head subluxations and elbow dislocations in the pediatric emergency setting.
• To outline current evidence-based recommendations for imaging, reduction, immobilization, and follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and evidence for pediatric radial head subluxations.
• Review of current literature and evidence for pediatric elbow dislocations.

Main Results:

• Current evidence for imaging, reduction techniques, and follow-up of radial head subluxations is discussed.
• Recommendations for imaging, reduction, immobilization, and follow-up of elbow dislocations are provided.

Conclusions:

• Effective emergency department management of pediatric radial head subluxations and elbow dislocations relies on timely diagnosis and appropriate interventions.
• Adherence to evidence-based guidelines ensures optimal outcomes for these common pediatric orthopedic emergencies.