Acute elbow dislocations - Simple and complex

The elbow is the second most common joint dislocated in adults. Up to 20% o f dislocations are associated with fractures. Treatment principles are redu ction of the joint, stabilization of associated fractures, and early motion . Ligament repairs or reconstruction and hinged external fixators are neces sary in some cases to restore stability for early motion. In general, simpl e dislocations have a better prognosis than complex dislocations (fracture- dislocations).