Andrew M Schneider1, Katherine Baur2, Dane H Salazar1. 1. Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois. 2. Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, Illinois.
Abstract
CASE: A 22-year-old woman with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) presented with profound elbow instability. A surgical technique that combined medial and lateral ligament reconstruction with the application of a temporary hinged internal fixator was performed. At 1 year postsurgery, the elbow remains stable and asymptomatic and has an excellent range of motion. CONCLUSION: Elbow instability due to EDS is a rare but disabling condition, especially in young active patients. Treatment of recurrent elbow instability with collateral ligament reconstruction and a temporary hinged internal fixator may be a viable surgical option to achieve stability, restore function, and preserve quality of life.
CASE: A 22-year-old woman with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) presented with profound elbow instability. A surgical technique that combined medial and lateral ligament reconstruction with the application of a temporary hinged internal fixator was performed. At 1 year postsurgery, the elbow remains stable and asymptomatic and has an excellent range of motion. CONCLUSION: Elbow instability due to EDS is a rare but disabling condition, especially in young active patients. Treatment of recurrent elbow instability with collateral ligament reconstruction and a temporary hinged internal fixator may be a viable surgical option to achieve stability, restore function, and preserve quality of life.