Pure traumatic dislocation of the elbow

Abstract

A total of 89 patients with simple traumatic dislocation treated at the Rizzoli Orthopaedic Institute between 1975 and 1986 were reviewed. The authors considered trauma mechanism, treatment, and results. The evaluation showed that elbow dislocation without joint fracture has a favorable prognosis with return to complete functions. Frequently, para-articular calcifications do not negatively affect joint function. Immediate reduction and plaster immobilization for 2 to 3 weeks are required to obtain soft tissue repair, and in order to avoid functional restriction as a result of prolonged immobilization. After removal of plaster active mobilization is sufficient to obtain complete joint function.