Floating elbow combining ipsilateral distal multiple segmental forearm fractures: A case report.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Trauma Management

Background:

• Floating elbow with ipsilateral multiple segmental forearm fractures is a rare, high-energy injury.
• Elbow dislocations or isolated radius/ulna fractures are more common than this combined injury pattern.

Observation:

• A 37-year-old woman sustained an open (IIIA) distal humerus fracture and multiple ipsilateral radius/ulna shaft fractures after a 20m fall.
• Initial management included trauma life support and damage control surgery (debridement, external fixation).
• One-stage internal fixation was performed subsequently, with normal biochemical indicators and reduced limb swelling.

Findings:

• The patient achieved a good functional outcome at 7-month follow-up.
• The damage control principle was effectively applied in managing this complex trauma.
• Treatment strategy (one- or two-stage) should be tailored to injury severity.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the successful application of damage control surgery for severe floating elbow and forearm fractures.
• Effective management of high-energy upper extremity trauma requires a staged approach.
• Prompt surgical intervention and tailored treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in complex fractures.