44 - Osteonecrosis of the Elbow Joint

Abstract

Patients with osteonecrosis of the elbow joint report pain over the affected elbow joint or joints that may radiate into the upper extremity. The pain is deep and aching, and patients often report a catching sensation with range of motion of the affected elbow joint or joints. Range of motion decreases as the disease progressesFactors predisposing to osteonecrosis of the elbow joint include trauma to the joint; corticosteroid use; Cushing’s disease; alcohol abuse; connective tissue diseases, especially systemic lupus erythematosus; osteomyelitis; human immunodeficiency virus infection; organ transplantation; hemoglobinopathies, including sickle cell disease; hyperlipidemia; gout; renal failure; pregnancy; sickle cell disease; and radiation therapy involving the femoral head.