Open reduction and temporary internal fixation of a subacute elbow dislocation.

Abstract

We present the case of a 61-year-old woman with a subacute elbow dislocation, who was referred to our institution 4 weeks after a fall. She was treated with open reduction and temporary bridging internal fixation through a posterior approach with a limited contact dynamic compression plate. After 4 weeks, the hardware was removed. One year postoperatively, the patient had nearly pain-free motion of 20° short of full extension and full flexion. Her radiographs showed residual incongruity and degenerative arthritis of the elbow.