Annular Ligament Interposition Into Radiocapitellar Joint in an Adult Patient: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Radiology

Background:

• Annular ligament interposition into the radiocapitellar joint (ALIRJ) is typically a pediatric condition.
• Adult ALIRJ is uncommon, often presenting with acute elbow pain and restricted motion, particularly in hypermobile individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of ALIRJ in an adult hypermobile athlete.
• To describe the successful non-surgical management of adult ALIRJ.
• To emphasize the importance of considering ALIRJ in adult differential diagnoses for elbow pain.

Main Methods:

• A case study of an 18-year-old female volleyball player with acute elbow symptoms.
• Diagnostic confirmation using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Non-surgical reduction achieved through specific maneuvers: repetitive pronation/supination with traction and flexion in hyperpronation.

Main Results:

• MRI confirmed annular ligament interposition into the radiocapitellar joint.
• The patient experienced successful reduction of the interposition.
• After 14 months, the patient remained pain-free with a full range of motion.

Conclusions:

• ALIRJ, though common in children, is rare in adults.
• This case underscores the necessity of considering ALIRJ in adult patients presenting with elbow pain, especially those with hyperlaxity.
• Tailored reduction maneuvers can effectively treat adult ALIRJ, preventing misdiagnosis and ensuring favorable outcomes.