2009 Reduction of Posterior Elbow Joint Dislocation eMedicine Procedures

Description: In adults, the elbow is the second most frequently dislocated major joint, after the shoulder. It is the most commonly dislocated joint in children. More than 90% of all elbow dislocations are posterior dislocations. This injury entails disengagement of the coronoid process of the ulna from the trochlea of the humerus with movement posteriorly. The mechanism of injury is typically a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH) with the elbow in extension upon impact.
Nina Chicharoen, MD & Nancy S Kwon, MD, MPA