Elbow dislocations

[Couch Potatoe]

Elbow dislocations occur when the lower end of upper arm bone (humerus) loses contact with the tops (heads) of the forearm bones (radius and ulna). Elbow dislocations may be complete (the ends of the bones do not touch) or partial (part of the bones still touch). Partial dislocations are called subluxations.
(See also Overview of Dislocations.)
Most elbow dislocations result from a fall on an extended arm. They may be accompanied by fractures, nerve injuries, and sometimes injury of an artery.
Elbow dislocations are common. However, for an elbow to be completely dislocated, significant force is usually required. Partial elbow dislocations (subluxations) are common among toddlers and usually result from much less force. Subluxations occur in but are much less common among infants, older children, and adults.
X-rays can confirm the diagnosis of an elbow dislocation.

[Ernesto]

Most elbow dislocations are posterior and usually result from a fall on an extended arm.
(See Overview of Dislocations.)
Posterior elbow dislocations are common; it is the 2nd most common joint dislocation after shoulder dislocations. Associated injuries may include

Fractures
Injuries to the ulnar or median nerve
Possibly injury to the brachial artery

The joint is usually flexed about 45#176;, and the olecranon is prominent and posterior to the humeral epicondyles; however, these anatomic relationships may be difficult to determine because of swelling. Classically, patients with an elbow dislocation present with a shortened forearm and a very prominent olecranon.
X-rays are diagnostic.