Complex instability of the elbow

Abstract

Injuries to the elbow are commonly encountered in orthopaedic practice. They range from low energy, simple isolated fractures, to high energy complex fracture dislocations with severe ligamentous disruption. Recognising the precise pattern of injury is critical in restoring elbow function and preventing chronic instability, pain and weakness. This article discusses the important osseous and ligamentous stabilisers of the elbow joint and provides management protocols for the common patterns of complex injury encountered by the practising surgeon.

Keywords: Complex elbow instability; Elbow dislocation; Elbow fracture; Elbow fracture dislocation; Elbow instability; Instability of the elbow; Terrible triad.