Recurrent Instability after Open Reduction of Old Unreduced Posterior Dislocations of Elbow treated by Reconstruction of Lateral Collateral Ligament

K. S. Maheswaran; C. Joney Mandice

Volume : VII, Issue : VIII, August - 2018

Recurrent Instability after Open Reduction of Old Unreduced Posterior Dislocations of Elbow treated by Reconstruction of Lateral Collateral Ligament

K. S. Maheswaran, C. Joney Mandice

Abstract :

Old Unreduced dislocation of the elbow is a disabling condition associated with instability, limitation of elbow function and often with pain. Due to the potentially conflicting goals of restoring elbow stability and regaining a satisfactory arc of motion, successful treatment of unreduced posterior dislocation of the elbow is a challenging problem for orthopaedic surgeons in the developing countries. The usual treatment protocol in our centreis open reduction through Campbell�s approach and closure with V–Y pasty of triceps. However a stable elbow was not achieved in all patients. Those patients with recurrent instability and subluxation were treated by reconstruction of lateral collateral ligament complex and a stable elbow was achieved in all these patients. At six month follow–up, the average extension/flexion arc of motion was 65 degrees. The average MEPI score at follow–up was 75.7.We present our case series for the observation that unstable reductions can be successfully treated by LCL reconstruction thereby avoiding need for hinged fixates as a routine. The aim of the study was to evaluate the functional outcome after lateral collateral ligament repairfor recurrent instability following open reduction of old unreduced elbow dislocations.