Outcome of neglected posterior elbow dislocation with gross ligamentous instability by arthrolysis combined with circumferential reconstruction of MCL, LUCL using triceps tendon fascia.

Dislocation of the elbow joint, which has not been treated for more than 3 weeks, is considered outdated. Due to the high risk of complications and the uncertainty of the effectiveness of the treatment of an old dislocation of the elbow joint, it is quite a difficult task for surgeons. There are various described techniques for repairing the lateral ligamentous complex (including the LUCL) and the medial collateral ligament. Objective. To describe the author's unique technique, which consists in using one graft to restore both lateral and medial ligaments. Methods. The personal experience of treating 14 patients with chronic dislocation of the elbow joint with deformation and multidirectional instability is presented. All patients were operated on by one surgeon using the arthrolysis method in combination with MCL, LUCL reconstruction using an ipsilateral autograft of the triceps tendinous fascia. Further observation was carried out at 3, 6 and 12 weeks, as well as at 6 and 9 months. In our case, we evaluated stability, range of motion, and the presence of pain syndrome. The results. Satisfactory results were obtained in terms of pain-free full range of motion and adequate stability of the elbow joint in all cases. All patients performed their active routine exercise with minimal limitation. Conclusions. The advantage of the technique is a unique comprehensive approach that uses one circular graft to restore both the lateral and medial ligament complexes, which ensures stability and possible early rehabilitation. This leads to an excellent functional result -- a quick restoration of the full range of motion in the joint and its stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]