Variations in the normal anatomy of the collateral ligaments of the human elbow joint

The variations which occur in the medial and lateral ligament complexes of the elbow were investigated. These occurred frequently with the standard ap pearances occurring in no more than half the specimens on the medial side;i nd one quarter of those on the lateral side. Surgeons who regularly perform elbow arthroplasty must be aware of these considerations, especially with the introduction of unconstrained prostheses which rely upon the ligament c omplex for their postoperative stability.