Our Summary

The research paper discusses a type of elbow injury called the “terrible triad,” which can lead to lasting complications and significant disability if not treated correctly. These injuries are complex and need to be precisely identified and managed to achieve the best possible recovery.

Understanding the elbow’s bone and ligament structure is crucial for planning the right surgical reconstruction to restore elbow stability. The main treatment involves an urgent adjustment of the elbow’s position, followed by 3D imaging. The next step is surgical repair or replacement of the damaged structures.

This paper provides a summary of the related anatomy and the recommended management strategies for these complicated injuries.

FAQs

  1. What are terrible triad injuries of the elbow?
  2. What are the main steps in treating terrible triad injuries of the elbow?
  3. Why is a clear understanding of the bony and ligamentous anatomy essential in treating elbow injuries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about elbow surgery is to follow their post-operative care instructions closely to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include keeping the elbow immobilized, attending physical therapy sessions, and taking prescribed medications as directed. It is also important for the patient to communicate any concerns or changes in symptoms to their doctor promptly. By following these guidelines, the patient can increase their chances of a successful outcome following elbow surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended elbow surgery are those with terrible triad injuries of the elbow, which are complex injuries that can result in long term complications and significant disability. These injuries require urgent reduction of the elbow, followed by 3-dimensional imaging and surgical repair or replacement of the injured structures to provide elbow stability. A clear understanding of the bony and ligamentous anatomy is essential to plan appropriate surgical reconstruction. These patients may have elbow fracture-dislocations, elbow instability, or other traumatic injuries to the elbow. Surgery is recommended in order to maximize functional outcomes and improve long-term function of the elbow.

Timeline

Before elbow surgery:

  1. Patient experiences a traumatic event such as a fall or sports injury resulting in a terrible triad injury of the elbow.
  2. Patient may experience severe pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected elbow.
  3. Patient undergoes diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and MRI to assess the extent of the injury.
  4. Orthopedic surgeon evaluates the injury and recommends surgery as the best course of treatment.
  5. Patient undergoes pre-operative assessments and consultations to prepare for surgery.

After elbow surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes surgical repair or replacement of the injured structures in the elbow to restore stability.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the recovery room for any complications.
  3. Patient may experience pain and swelling in the elbow post-surgery and is prescribed pain medication and physical therapy to aid in recovery.
  4. Patient may be required to wear a splint or brace to immobilize the elbow during the initial healing phase.
  5. Patient undergoes post-operative follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor the healing process and progress of rehabilitation.
  6. Patient gradually resumes activities of daily living and physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion in the elbow.
  7. Patient may require long-term follow-up care to monitor for any complications or long-term effects of the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific type of elbow surgery do I need?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications of the surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after the surgery?
  4. Will I have any restrictions or limitations after the surgery?
  5. What are the success rates of this type of surgery for my particular condition?
  6. How many of these surgeries have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need physical therapy after the surgery, and if so, for how long?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  9. How soon after the surgery will I be able to return to normal activities, such as work or sports?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or approaches that I should consider before proceeding with surgery?

Reference

Authors: Waterworth R, Finlayson G, Franklin M, Jabbal M, Faulkner A, Gallagher B. Journal: Injury. 2023 Aug;54(8):110889. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2023.110889. Epub 2023 Jun 15. PMID: 37353449