Complete Rupture of Common Extensor Origin of Elbow: A Rare Case Report, Management, and Outcome.

INTRODUCTION

Complete avulsion of the common extensor origin of the elbow is a very rare injury which significantly weakens upper limb function. The restoration of the extensor origin is indispensable to the function of the elbow. There are very few reports of such injuries and their reconstruction.

CASE REPORT: We present a case report of a 57-year-old male who presented with pain and swelling of elbow with inability to lift objects for 3 weeks. We diagnosed a complete common extensor origin rupture due to prior degeneration after corticosteroid injection for tennis elbow. The patient underwent reconstruction of the extensor origin with suture anchor. His wound healed well and he was mobilized from 2 weeks onward. At 3 months, he had full recovery of range of movement.

CONCLUSION

It is crucial to diagnose these injuries, reconstruct them anatomically, and ensure good rehabilitation for optimum results.