Vascular injuries associated with elbow fractures and dislocations

The association between elbow fractures and dislocations and vascular injury was reviewed at our institution over a ten year period from 1983 to 1993. A total of fifty-six cases of acute elbow fracture or dislocation which required operative treatment were reviewed and of these two had a concomitant vascular injury. In both these cases diagnostic imaging studies confirmed the clinical diagnosis and arterial reconstruction was done. These cases are reviewed along with the arterial anatomy about the elbow which allows for significant collateral circulation. The general principles of fracture or dislocation reduction followed by vascular reassessment and arterial reconstruction if needed are reviewed.