[Isolated dislocation of the elbow].

GOALS OF THE STUDY: To analyse the results of non surgical management of isolated dislocation (without any fractures) of the elbow in adult.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

We reviewed with an average follow up of 36 months 22 patients (22 elbows) who had been treated conservatively after a first episode of posterior dislocation of the elbow.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients (86%) reported an excellent or a good subjective result, although 64% suffered occasionally from pain. None had presented a recurrent dislocation. At physical examination, 27% had a restricted extension of the elbow of 10 degrees and more, and 27% had some kind of chronic laxity. Fifty percent had modifications visible on the X-rays. We found no correlation between laxity and duration of immobilization. At contrary, patients who were immobilized for a longer time than 3 weeks suffered more often of a painful restricted extension of the elbow.

DISCUSSION: Conservative management of posterior dislocation of the elbow has a good prognosis. Occasional pain and chronic laxity are often present but well supported. Early mobilization decreases the risk of permanent limited extension of the elbow.