![]() Unfortunately, with surgical intervention comes the risk of nerve damage. Thirdly, there are important nerves around the elbow that are responsible for innervating the muscles in the hand and providing sensation. However, once it starts to harden, the dye is often cast as the shape of the cement. At Glenelg Orthopaedics we relate this to cement setting while cement is still soft, it is easier to mould. The longer one delays movement, the more likely stiffness will occur. It is of vital importance that full motion is encouraged despite the pain that may be experienced. Secondly, as outlined above, the development of stiffness can impede management. Furthermore, smoking can inflame the nerves, ultimately causing more pain. Factors such as smoking can hinder the rate of bone healing, increasing the risk of wound breakdown, and infection. Unfortunately, all treatments will have associated risks.įirstly, treatment involves the bone healing naturally, the rate of which can vary depending on the individual. Are there any risks associated with the treatment of these injuries? In the long term, this will allow the elbow to recover to its full potential.įor best result, it is important to consult a surgeon who has experience with such injuries. However, it is important that motion is encouraged to prevent stiffness. Unfortunately, due to the nature of this injury, treatment can be associated with significant amounts of pain. Quite often a fractured olecranon will occur in conjunction with damage to the coronoid process, the anatomical function of which is to create stability in the arm. This leads to instability along with associated breaks to the radial head and the olecranon. What is a terrible triad?Ī terrible triad is a complex dislocation of the elbow where ligaments on the outside, or commonly on the inside of the elbow, are torn. Commonly, these injuries will require a brace. If combination injuries occur in conjunction with ligament damage, it is known as a terrible triad. Other fractures include fractures to the distal humerus, or combination fractures involving the radial head and the olecranon. This time period will depend on the stability of the fracture. ![]() Under these circumstances, the arm will be placed in a splint to protect it for a period of time before motion is commenced. Fixation can be done through tension band wiring, or with metal plates. The vast majority of these fractures will require fixation as fragments, if not yet displaced, will eventually displace by the pull of the triceps muscle. When this fracture occurs, the triceps muscle pulls the bone away, resulting in displacement. This occurs in a similar fashion to the radial head fracture but often is associated with a muscle contraction, where the broken fragment is attached to the triceps muscle (the muscle in the back of the arm). The tip of the elbow (olecranon) is another common fracture. What other fractures occur around the elbow? Options for treatment include the use of screws or a metal plate or, in some circumstances, the use of an artificial radial head. The method of treatment depends on a number of factors, including the patient’s age, the degree of displacement, and the number of fragments. What is done if the fracture is displaced? For this reason, it is actually harmful to leave the elbow stationary. If this occurs, it is quite difficult to treat. Lack of motion or leaving the elbow immobile can increase the probability of a fracture moving. However, it is common for the elbow to get stiff after such an injury. It is extremely unlikely for the fracture to move. ![]() ![]() If the arm is encouraged to move would that make the fracture move and possibly result in surgery? Movements involving flexion and extension, as well as pronation and supination are recommended. However, it is of vital importance that elbow motion is encouraged as soon as possible. A sling can be used to minimise discomfort. There are three grades of radial head fractures.įortunately, the majority of radial head fractures are either Grade I or Grade II and do not require surgical intervention. ![]() The Life Cycle of a Musculo-Skeletal Injury.Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow (Epicondylitis). ![]()
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