What is the elbow?
The elbow is a hinge joint comprised of 3 bones – humerus, radius and ulna
(see Figure 1). Ligaments hold the bones together to provide stability to the joint.
Muscles and tendons originate and insert onto the bones around the elbow to
provide force to move the bones and perform activities.
How do elbow fractures happen?
Elbow fractures may result from falling onto an outstretched arm, a direct impact
to the elbow, or a twisting injury. Sprains, strains, or dislocations may occur at the
same time as a fracture.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Pain, swelling, bruising, and stiffness in and around the elbow suggest a possible
fracture. A snap or pop at the time of injury may be felt or heard. Skin openings
may reflect communication between the bone and the outside environment. Visible
deformity would indicate displacement of the bones or a dislocation of the elbow
joint. It is always important to check for possible nerve and/or artery damage.
How are elbow fractures diagnosed?
X-rays are used to confirm if a fracture is present and if the bones are displaced.
Sometimes a CT scan might be necessary to get further detail, especially of the
joint surface.
How are they treated?
Stiffness is a major concern after any elbow fracture. Treatment is therefore
focused on maximizing early motion. Conservative treatment (sling, cast) is
usually used when the bones are at low risk of moving out of place, or when
the position of the bones is acceptable. Age is also an important factor when
treating elbow fractures. Casts are used frequently in children, as their risk of
developing stiffness is small; however, in an adult, elbow stiffness is much more
likely. Fractures that are displaced or unstable are more likely to need surgery to
realign and stabilize the fragments, or sometimes to remove bone fragments, and
ideally allow for early motion. Whenever a fracture is open (skin broken over the
fracture), urgent surgery is needed to clean out the tract and bone so as to
minimize the risk of a deep infection.