Simple acute postero-lateral elbow dislocation: A historical perspective.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomechanics
• Elbow Trauma

Background:

• Posterolateral elbow dislocation (PLED) is a complex injury.
• Understanding its biomechanics, radiographic features, and clinical presentation has evolved significantly.
• Historical knowledge and data have shaped current management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical evolution of the posterolateral elbow dislocation (PLED) pattern.
• To summarize biomechanical, radiographic, and clinical data related to PLED.
• To enhance clinician understanding of PLED management.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Ovid, Scopus, and Cochrane Library.
• The Medical Subject Headings vocabulary was utilized for keyword identification.
• A chronological review of relevant literature from 1920 to 2022 was performed.

Main Results:

• The posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) causing PLED was first described in 1966.
• Multiple theories and treatment protocols for PLED have been developed over time.
• Both conservative and surgical PLED treatments yield good functional outcomes, but long-term issues like pain and stiffness persist.

Conclusions:

• No consensus exists on surgical indications for PLED despite biomechanical evidence.
• While treatments offer satisfactory outcomes, residual pain and instability can impact patient function.
• Future research should focus on identifying patients who would benefit from surgical stabilization for PLED.