[Traumatic elbow joint luxation in the dog and cat: perioperative findings]

Thirty-eight cases (24 dogs, 14 cats) of elbow luxation were reviewed. Seventeen surgical treatments were necessary either after conservative reduction (14) or because conservative reduction was not possible (3). Medial instability of the elbow joint due to medial collateral ligamental damage or avulsion of the origin of the medial collateral ligament were the major indication for surgery. The type and frequency of perioperative lesions as well as their therapeutical and prognostical relevance are described.