[Operative corrections of posttraumatic deformities of the elbow joint in children].

Posttraumatic deformities with need for surgical correction are rare and demanding in the pediatric population. The consequences of a bad outcome may last a life time. The best prevention of deformities around the elbow joint is proper initial treatment. The most common deformities are cubitus varus, cubitus valgus, chronic dislocation of the radial head and pseudarthrosis of the radial condyle. In contrast to the wide spread opinion to await the effect of the further growth, the deformity should be treated contemporarily to the underlying injury. This strategy will optimize the outcome. In special cases treatment with delay is justified.