Elbow dislocation with ipsilateral open radial and ulnar diaphyseal fractures — a rare combination

Abstract

An 8-year-old Caucasian male was referred to our unit with a left upper limb injury sustained during a fall from a playground slide. The exact mechanism of injury is unknown but it was reported that the patient’s full body weight was transmitted through the left arm on impact. Examination revealed a markedly swollen left elbow and left forearm deformity with two 1cm lacerations on the volar aspect of the forearm approximately 4cm from the wrist joint. Neurovascular examination was normal and there were no other injuries noted. Radiographic examination revealed a posterior dislocation of the left elbow associated with grossly displaced distal third fractures of the radius and ulna (Fig. 1). Elbow reduction and wound toilet were performed under sedation in the emergency room. A stable arc of motion was elicited at the elbow post reduction. Intravenous antibiotics (cefotaxime 750mg) and tetanus toxoid were administered.