Silent Elbow Joint Relocation - A Red Flag for Medial Collateral Ligament
Instability Needing Repair
RM Vignesh Karthik*
Department of Orthopaedics, SPMM Hospital, Salem, India
*Corresponding Author: RM Vignesh Karthik, Department of Orthopaedics, SPMM Hospital, Salem, India.
Received:
September 29, 2022; Published: November 21, 2022
Abstract
Background: This case report is to highlight the red flag for ligamentous injury in elbow dislocation cases which reduce into position without much effort. All cases of easily reducible elbow dislocations warrant a CT scan and dynamic examination using an image intensifier to identify the torn ligaments. This aids in early reconstruction of the torn ligaments and better rehabilitation.
Patient and Method: An office going young lady sustained injury to her right elbow. She was diagnosed with posterior elbow dislocation which reduced into position with just a gentle push on the olecranon. She underwent dynamic radiological examination which revealed an unstable medial support with coronoid fracture. She was assessed for surgery and underwent open reduction and fixation of the coronoid fragment, followed by medial collateral ligament repair.
Result: At 6 months follow up she has regained full range of movements with no instability.
Conclusion: Easy reduction of dislocated elbow is a red flag for bony avulsion/ligamentous injury and warrants complete radiological workup including dynamic x rays. Prompt and early ligament reconstruction re-establishes the stability of the joint.
Keywords: Elbow Instability; Elbow Dislocation; Elbow Ligament Reconstruction; Coronoid Fracture
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