Abstract
Introduction Elbow dislocation is a common injury that one may encounter in an emergency setting. Every dislocation can be categorized as simple or complex depending on bony involvement, and treatment depends mainly on injury pattern as well as on post-reduction stability. Aim The aim of this review is to present the current state of the art concerning diagnosis and treatment of simple elbow dislocations and to propose an algorithm based on which one might successfully provide patients with adequate care. Material and methods Twelve papers dating back from 1999 to 2020 using PubMed, Cochrane Library were reviewed to search for evidence-based treatment methods associated with best results after acute elbow dislocation. Results Quick mobilization in a stable range of motion after joint reduction reduces the risk of long term complications and pain greatly. Careful examination of the joint involved is crucial in terms of correct therapy selection. In a minority of cases with persisting instability, operative treatment is the treatment of choice. Conclusions In most cases involving simple elbow dislocations, appropriate conservative treatment brings favorable results and elbow stiffness or range of motion (ROM) restriction are rare. However, in rare cases, operative repair is mandatory.
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