Adult elbow dislocations: mechanism of instability

From these data it appears reasonable to advocate open repair of fracture dislocations of the elbow joint, particularly those associated with radial head fractures. In these instances improved functional results can be anticipated. In simple elbow dislocations in adults, it is possible that open repair of the medial collateral ligament will produce improved functional results. However, the data, although suggestive, are not conclusive at this time. It is our belief that the indications for surgery in elbow dislocations can be summarized as follows. Surgical intervention is indicated if spontaneous redislocation occurs, unless the arm is flexed above 90 degrees. Surgery is indicated if a spontaneous redislocation of the elbow dislocation occurs with the arm in plaster. Surgical repair of the medial collateral ligament is indicated in all instances of fracture dislocations of the elbow, particularly those associated with radial head fractures. In adult simple elbow dislocations surgical repair of the anterior oblique ligament certainly does not impair elbow function at follow-up and indeed may lead to better results.