Sameer K Khan1, Rajat Chopra, Debasis Chakravarty. 1. Department of Trauma and Orthopaedics, Peterborough District Hospital, Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, UK. sameer.khan@doctors.net.uk.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Pure lateral elbow dislocation is rare, and a successful closed reduction is even rarer. Reduction can be hindered by swelling, soft tissue interposition or associated fractures. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a pure lateral traumatic dislocation of the elbow joint in a 40-year-old man. This was successfully manipulated and reduced in casualty using a modification of the gravity-aided 'hanging arm' technique originally described for shoulder dislocations by Stimson. CONCLUSION: We strongly recommend the use of this simple technique in these rare yet difficult injuries, in order to avoid potential complications with general anaesthesia and surgery.
INTRODUCTION: Pure lateral elbow dislocation is rare, and a successful closed reduction is even rarer. Reduction can be hindered by swelling, soft tissue interposition or associated fractures. CASE PRESENTATION: We present a pure lateral traumatic dislocation of the elbow joint in a 40-year-old man. This was successfully manipulated and reduced in casualty using a modification of the gravity-aided 'hanging arm' technique originally described for shoulder dislocations by Stimson. CONCLUSION: We strongly recommend the use of this simple technique in these rare yet difficult injuries, in order to avoid potential complications with general anaesthesia and surgery.