Which of the following statements about traumatic dislocation of the elbow in adults is correct?

• A The majority of dislocations occur in the anterior direction
• B The radial nerve is the most commonly injured nerve
• C The most frequent direction is posterior or posterolateral ✓
• D Prolonged immobilisation in a cast gives the best functional result

Explanation

Elbow dislocation occurs most commonly in a posterior or posterolateral direction following a fall on the outstretched hand, because the trochlea levers the ulna backwards off the humerus. The ulnar nerve and the median nerve are the nerves at greatest risk, not the radial nerve. Simple elbow dislocations reduced promptly do best with brief protection followed by early range-of-motion exercises, because prolonged immobilisation predictably leads to stiffness, heterotopic ossification, and loss of extension.

Reference: Apley and Solomon's System of Orthopaedics and Trauma, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.