Neglected Elbow Dislocation leading to Ankylosis of Elbow: A Case Report

Neglected elbow dislocation is defined as a dislocation that is present for 3 weeks or longer. There is no available literature on neglected elbow dislocations, leading to ankylosis of the elbow joint.

A 17-year-old female sustained a road traffic accident. Anteroposterior and lateral view radiographs of the forearm were done and deemed to be normal at another hospital. Six months after the injury, she presented to us with complaints of absent elbow movements. Examination revealed the elbow to be fixed in 30° of flexion. Radiographs of the elbow revealed an ankylosis of the ulnohumeral articulation in an abnormal position.

This case demonstrates that neglected elbow dislocations can lead to ankylosis of the joint. It also shows how radiographs of the forearm are inadequate to assess for elbow dislocations even if the elbow region is covered in the radiograph.