Simultaneous bilateral elbow dislocation with associated bilateral radial head fracture

Abstract

Bilateral elbow dislocation is a rare injury, with only a small number of case reports in the literature. The majority of these reports describe associated ligamentous injuries only. Simultaneous bilateral radial head fracture in association with bilateral elbow dislocation has only been described on one occasion previously. We present the case of a 54-year-old woman who dislocated both elbows and fractured both radial heads following a fall. In the operating theatre under general anaesthesia, both elbows were reduced by closed manipulation, it was then decided to treat the radial head fractures non-operativley. There was no neurovascular deficit either pre or post reduction. The patient was placed in above elbow casts for 1 week. Both casts were then removed and intensive physiotherapy was prescribed. The patient had an excellent clinical outcome and returned to work as a florist within 6 months of her injury. The purpose of this report was to describe a very rare injury pattern, and to emphasise the importance of early mobilisation following bilateral elbow dislocation.