Anatomy and Growth The elbow joint consists of the articulating surfaces of three epiphyses: the distal humerus, the proximal ulna, and the proximal radius. At birth, each epiphysis is one mass of cartilage, each with its own growth plate (the…
Introduction Complications associated with supracondylar humerus fractures can be divided into broad categories. The etiology of a complication may be due to the injury itself or the management of the injury. The complication may be associated with the soft tissues,…
Introduction Supracondylar humerus fractures are the most common elbow fracture in children and have the highest complication rate for elbow fractures in this age group. These compelling facts continue to arouse the interest and hold the attention of orthopedists who…
Introduction This chapter will discuss congenital anomalies of the elbow. Any congenital abnormality must be assessed and treated with consideration for the remainder of the upper extremity, as well as the generalized condition of the patient and associated medical diagnoses.…
Introduction Upper extremity injuries account for the majority of pediatric fractures, with injuries to the elbow occurring with a frequency second only to radius fractures. The majority of pediatric elbow fractures occur within the distal humerus, with supracondylar humerus fractures…
Introduction As with many joint advances in technology and skills, collaborations have fueled major advancements in elbow arthroscopy indications and techniques. These advances have been noted in multiple case reports and by anecdotal evidence. However, the evidence via randomized control…
Introduction Arthroscopy of the elbow has a higher incidence of complications than any of the other joints. The proximity of the neurovascular structures and the superficial nature of the posterior lateral aspect of the joint capsule increase the usual risks…
Introduction Franz Konig first described osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions in 1887 as an inflammatory response that resulted in the formation of intraarticular loose bodies. We have since learned that OCD lesions do not contain inflammatory cells, but they are responsible…
Introduction Degenerative arthritis of the elbow seems to be growing more common and may be a cause of substantial disability. Although initial treatment is usually nonoperative, the arthritis often progresses and has been historically managed by open measures. Since the…
Introduction Elbow arthroscopy has been utilized increasingly commonly since 1932, when Burman concluded in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery that the elbow joint was arthroscopically “unsuitable for examination.” In fact, it has proven to be a valuable tool…