Fractures of the elbow.

Elbow fractures encompass a spectrum of severity from low energy nondisplaced fractures to high energy fractures with associated severe soft-tissue injury. Treatment is based on fracture pattern, patient age, bone quality, associated soft-tissue injuries, and associated fractures. The basis for treatment relies on the knowledge of the complex osseous and soft-tissue anatomy of the elbow. The goals of operative and nonoperative treatment are to achieve a stable, anatomic reduction that allows early motion to maximize function.