Report on compound dislocation of the elbow with entrapment of the brachial artery.

Entrapment of the brachial artery within a compound dislocated elbow joint seems not to have been reported previously. Brachial artery rupture is the usual vascular injury associated with a compound elbow dislocation. A review of the surgical literature suggests that wide spectrum of disability may follow interruption of brachial artery flow at the elbow. While most patients experience no immediate or late ischemic symptoms because of the rich collateral network about the elbow, intermittent claudication or gangrene of the hand is possible and has been well-documented in the literature. To assure adequate circulation to the hand and prevent potential complications, reanastomosis or venous graft replacement of the damaged arterial segment is recommended at the time of traumatic disruption of the brachial artery.