The collateral ligaments of the elbow - Anatomy and clinical correlation

Stability of the elbow is provided by the congruous nature of the bony arti culations and the medial and lateral collateral ligament complexes. The med ial ligament provides additional support to valgus stress. The lateral liga ment prevents rotational instability between the distal humerus and the pro ximal radius and ulna. Collateral ligament insufficiency typically is post- traumatic and can occur on either side of the joint. An understanding of th e normal anatomy is required to make the correct diagnosis and complete a s uccessful surgical reconstruction.