Posterolateral Subluxation Exposure of the Elbow for Injuries Involving the Lateral Column

Abstract

The posterolateral subluxation exposure of the elbow is a useful surgical technique for addressing complex radial head or capitellar fractures. It can be modified to allow for exposure of the distal humerus or elbow in more complex cases including those resulting in the terrible triad injury. In this approach, dissection to the radiocapitellar joint via a posterior incision provides great exposure and allows for reduction and internal fixation or placement of a radial head prosthesis. The authors in this video presentation demonstrate the posterolateral approach for radial head fractures and radial head replacement along with some technical caveats.