Return to Sports in Recreational Athletes After Complex Elbow Dislocation

Background/Objectives: Complex elbow dislocations are rare but severe injuries. Optimal treatment is controversial, and few studies focus on return to sports. The aim of the study is to analyze functional outcomes and return-to-sport and return-to-work metrics in recreational athletes after complex elbow dislocation. Methods: A retrospective single-center study at a level I trauma center was performed from January 2008 to December 2019. Epidemiological data, associated injuries, and treatment of complex elbow dislocations were analyzed. Patients were followed up for at least two years after injury, and return-to-sports and return-to-work rates along with patient-reported outcome measures were investigated. Results: Fifty-six patients were included. The mean follow-up was 6.4 years (range, 2.0-12.5). The mean Subjective Elbow Value was 80.2 (95% CI, 74.7-85.8), the Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 83.8 (95% CI, 78.8-88.7), and Oxford Elbow Score was 37.8 (95% CI, 35.1-40.5). Of 41 recreational athletes, 37 returned to sports; however, only 31.7% fully returned to their pre-injury sport, 43.9% returned partially, and 24.4% switched sports. A total of 82% fully returned to work, 8.2% partially, and 10.2% did not return. Conclusions: Complex elbow dislocations remain severe injuries associated with relevant functional limitations. Nevertheless, good clinical outcomes and high overall return-to-sport and return-to-work rates can be achieved in recreational athletes. While the majority resume sporting activity, nearly 25% of patients do not return to their pre-injury sport.