The elbow is the second most commonly dislocated joint after the shoulder in adults.
It is the most commonly dislocated joint in children.
90% of all elbow dislocation are posterior. A considerable amount of force is required to dislocate the elbow so be highly suspicous for associated fractures of the radial head, or coronoid process of the ulna.
The combination of a radial head fracture, coronoid process fracture and elbow dislocation is known as the terrible elbow.
Anterior elbow dislocations can be associated with injuries to the brachial artery, median and ulnar nerves.
Quick clinical clues that the elbow is dislocated:
Posterior dislocation typically will have a prominent olecranon process, the arm is flexed at the elbow, and the forearm will appear shortened.
Anterior dislocation typically present with the arm in extension and the forearm will appear elongated.
