Posterolateral elbow dislocation: an all-arthroscopic reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament

Abstract

The elbow is one of the most commonly dislocated joints. Although simple dislocations of the elbow usually resolve with conservative management, certain patients can experience residual chronic instability. Posterolateral rotational instability accounts for approximately 80% of elbow chronic instability cases. We propose an all-arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior, or ulnar, fascicle of the lateral ligament complex using an autograft or allograft, performed with a 5-mm-thick and 8-cm-long graft. The graft is first inserted distally into the supinator crest with an Arthrex 4.75-mm SwiveLock implant and, finally, at its origin in the epicondyle, also with a screw of the same characteristics. Arthroscopic techniques create fewer complications. This procedure allows the surgeon to address intra-articular elbow joint pathology with less chance of wound complications and the ability to use bone anchors if desired.