Reconstruction of posttraumatic elbow instability

Successful reconstruction of posttraumatic elbow instability depends on res toration of the anatomic contributors to stability, The osseous and articul ar structures are paramount. The radial head and coronoid should be repaire d or reconstructed and the olecranon (proximal ulna) should be repaired in anatomic alignment so that the contour and dimensions of the trochelar notc h are restored and the radiocapitellar joint is aligned appropriately. The lateral collateral ligament complex is commonly disrupted and usually can b e reattached to its origin from the lateral epicondyle. Patients with longs tanding subluxation or dislocation may require temporary hinged external fi xation or reconstruction of the collateral ligaments with tendon grafts.