Elbow dislocations are the most common major joint dislocation (2nd to shoulder). Elbow Dislocations can be characterized as simple or complex (depending on associated injury to nearby bones/ligaments) with most diagnosed via plain radiographs. Most common type of #elbowdislocation is posterolateral (80%), and occurs most commonly in 10-20 yr olds
.
Elbow Dislocation Treatment:
Nonoperative: Closed Reduction + Splint (early physical therapy) is used with (most) acute, simple stable dislocations
Operative: Open Reduction/Internal Fixation (ORIF) +/- LCL, MCL repair is used for acute complex elbow dislocations, with persistent instability following initial reduction, or when closed reduction cannot be accomplished. Open reduction, capsular release, and dynamic hinged elbow fixator can be used for chronic instability
.
What are the most common complications following both simple and complex elbow dislocation and/or fracture injuries?