Instabilidade do Cotovelo

Patients › Elbow

Elbow ligamentous and bony instability, including dislocation and the terrible-triad pattern.

Updated Jun 2026
Uma ilustração desenhada à mão de uma pessoa sem rosto segurando o cotovelo após ceder durante uma queda.
Ligamentos do cotovelo — os ligamentos colaterais ulnar e radial são os principais estabilizadores. Kieran Hirpara 4.0

Esta página foi traduzida automaticamente e ainda não foi verificada por um médico. A versão em inglês é a versão oficial.

O que você está sentindo

Você pode sentir como se o cotovelo estivesse escapando do lugar ou cedendo. Essa sensação frequentemente ocorre quando você estende a mão para pegar objetos ou levantar coisas. A dor pode ser aguda e súbita, ou pode parecer uma dor profunda que persiste. Você pode notar que a dor piora após usar o braço para tarefas diárias, como abotoar uma camisa ou alcançar atrás das costas para fechar um sutiã. Algumas pessoas percebem que dormir do lado afetado piora o desconforto, enquanto outras sentem rigidez ao acordar pela manhã.

A instabilidade frequentemente decorre de lesões nos ligamentos que mantêm os ossos do cotovelo unidos. Esses ligamentos atuam como faixas resistentes, mantendo a articulação estável. Quando estão lesionados, o cotovelo pode não se mover suavemente. Você pode experimentar uma sensação de folga ou uma sensação de "prender" ao dobrar ou estender o braço. Isso pode tornar movimentos simples difíceis. Por exemplo, girar uma maçaneta de porta ou servir água em um copo pode parecer estranho ou inseguro porque você não tem certeza se o cotovelo manterá a estabilidade.

Em alguns casos, a dor não está apenas na própria articulação, mas irradia para o antebraço. Você pode confundir isso com cotovelo de tenista, que é a dor na parte externa do cotovelo. No entanto, se a dor persistir apesar do repouso, pode estar ligada a uma instabilidade subjacente. Você também pode notar inchaço ou calor ao redor da articulação após a atividade. É comum sentir frustração quando as tarefas diárias se tornam desafiadoras. Seu cirurgião o ajudará a entender exatamente o que está causando esses sintomas por meio de um exame cuidadoso e testes de imagem.

Se você teve uma luxação anterior, pode estar mais consciente de como seu cotovelo se move. Você pode evitar certas posições para impedir que a articulação se desloque. Essa cautela pode levar à rigidez ao longo do tempo. Você pode perceber que não consegue estender ou dobrar completamente o braço como costumava fazer. Essa perda de movimento pode afetar sua capacidade de realizar atividades rotineiras. Entender esses sentimentos é o primeiro passo para receber o tratamento adequado para restaurar a estabilidade e o conforto.

O que está realmente acontecendo

O seu cotovelo é uma articulação do tipo dobradiça complexa que depende de dois tipos de suporte para permanecer estável. Os estabilizadores estáticos são os ossos e os ligamentos que atuam como cordas resistentes. Os estabilizadores dinâmicos são os músculos que puxam para manter tudo no lugar. Essas estruturas devem funcionar em perfeita sincronia. Quando não o fazem, o seu cotovelo torna-se instável.

Esta instabilidade frequentemente envolve lesão dos ossos e dos estabilizadores ligamentares. Os ligamentos são bandas espessas de tecido que mantêm a articulação unida. Em muitos casos, a lesão causa instabilidade rotatória. Isto significa que os ossos giram em direções anormais, como para trás e para o lado. O seu cirurgião deve abordar estas forças de torção específicas para restaurar a estabilidade. Se apenas uma direção for tratada, o cotovelo pode continuar a sentir-se frouxo ou doloroso.

A dor e a sensação de cedência que experimenta resultam desta falha mecânica. Sem o suporte adequado, as superfícies articulares esfregam umas nas outras de forma incorreta. Isto pode aumentar a pressão sobre a cartilagem, que é o revestimento liso nas extremidades ósseas. Com o tempo, este desgaste pode levar à artrite. Os sintomas são o sinal do seu corpo de que a integridade estrutural da articulação está comprometida.

Por vezes, é difícil distinguir entre um cotovelo saudável e flexível e um que é verdadeiramente instável. A ecografia por si só nem sempre consegue fazer esta distinção. É por isso que o seu cirurgião depende de uma história clínica completa e de um exame físico. Eles procuram padrões específicos de movimento que indicam quais estabilizadores estão a falhar.

O tratamento visa reparar ou substituir estes suportes danificados. As reparações ligamentares podem produzir resultados satisfatórios, ajudando-o a recuperar um arco de movimento quase completo. Em casos mais complexos, pode ser necessária uma reconstrução para equilibrar as forças articulares. O objetivo é sempre impedir a torção anormal e restaurar a cinemática natural do seu cotovelo.

O que podemos fazer a respeito

Sua jornada rumo à estabilidade começa com monitoramento cuidadoso e movimento suave. Para luxações simples do cotovelo, seu cirurgião realizará uma avaliação clínica detalhada e solicitará acompanhamento radiográfico sequencial. Isso garante que a articulação esteja cicatrizando corretamente, sem voltar a sair do lugar. Se sua luxação for simples, o tratamento conservador frequentemente leva a bons resultados clínicos e funcionais. Você trabalhará com um fisioterapeuta para restaurar a mobilidade. O objetivo é recuperar um arco quase completo de flexão do cotovelo e rotação do antebraço. Você deve dar tempo a esse processo. A paciência é fundamental enquanto seus ligamentos cicatrizam e seus músculos recuperam a força.

Se a dor ou a rigidez persistirem, seu cirurgião pode discutir opções de manejo médico. Esses tratamentos visam reduzir a inflamação e proteger a articulação enquanto ela cicatriza. Você pode receber injeções para ajudar no controle dos sintomas. Injeções de cortisona podem reduzir o inchaço e a dor a curto prazo. Injeções de ácido hialurônico podem ajudar a lubrificar a articulação, embora as evidências sobre benefícios a longo prazo variem. Injeções de plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) usam componentes do seu próprio sangue para promover a cicatrização, mas os resultados podem variar de pessoa para pessoa. Essas opções não corrigem a instabilidade estrutural, mas podem tornar as atividades diárias mais confortáveis enquanto você se concentra na reabilitação.

A cirurgia é considerada quando o tratamento conservador atingiu seu limite ou quando a instabilidade é complexa. Se você tiver instabilidade combinada em ambas as direções, a cirurgia é necessária para restaurar a estabilidade. Seu cirurgião pode reparar o ligamento colateral lateral utilizando reforço com fita de sutura ou âncoras de sutura. Para instabilidades tardias, ele pode reconstruir o ligamento utilizando um enxerto tendinoso de outra parte do seu corpo. Em casos graves, em que o cotovelo está rígido ou anquilosado, um fixador externo articulado pode ser utilizado junto com o reparo. Para pacientes com perda óssea significativa ou lesão ligamentar, uma artroplastia total do cotovelo interligada (substituição da articulação) pode ser preferível à não interligada, para prevenir maior instabilidade. Embora os resultados cirúrgicos possam ser satisfatórios, os tratamentos permanecem desafiadores. Altas taxas de instabilidade persistente, rigidez ou dor podem ocorrer em casos exigentes. Seu cirurgião discutirá se os benefícios da cirurgia superam esses riscos para a sua situação específica.

O que esperar

O seu prognóstico depende em grande parte de a sua instabilidade do cotovelo ser simples ou complexa. As luxações simples frequentemente resolvem-se bem com tratamento conservador. A maioria dos pacientes observa a resolução completa dos seus sintomas. Tipicamente, pode recuperar um arco quase completo de flexão do cotovelo e rotação do antebraço. Os resultados funcionais são geralmente bons.

A instabilidade complexa envolve mais danos nos ossos e ligamentos que mantêm a sua articulação unida. Este tipo é mais difícil de tratar. Mesmo com técnicas modernas, os resultados podem ser desafiadores em casos exigentes. Pode enfrentar instabilidade persistente, rigidez, dor ou artrose pós-traumática. Estes problemas podem persistir muito tempo após a lesão inicial.

Se tiver instabilidade lateral menor do cotovelo, pode encontrar alívio através de procedimentos específicos, como a plicação do ligamento. Num seguimento mediano de dois anos, os pacientes relatam satisfação subjetiva e resultados clínicos positivos. Para casos mais graves que requerem reparação ou reconstrução ligamentar, o objetivo é restaurar a estabilidade. A augmentação com fita de sutura é uma opção que produz resultados funcionais aceitáveis. A taxa de reintervenção para estes procedimentos é comparável à de outras cirurgias de estabilização articular.

É importante saber que os resultados a longo prazo para lesões complexas do cotovelo permanecem desconhecidos. Ainda não dispomos de dados suficientes para prever o que acontece muitos anos após a cirurgia. Em alguns casos, os ligamentos podem não cicatrizar ou contrair suficientemente ao longo do tempo. Podem surgir problemas até cinco anos após a remoção de uma prótese da cabeça do rádio.

Se deixada sem tratamento, a instabilidade frequentemente persiste. O cotovelo depende de estabilizadores estáticos e dinâmicos a trabalharem em sincronia. Quando estes falham, a articulação torna-se pouco fiável. As luxações simples requerem uma avaliação detalhada e seguimento radiográfico sequencial para garantir uma cicatrização adequada. Os casos complexos frequentemente necessitam de abordagem cirúrgica das direções posterolateral e posteromedial para restaurar a estabilidade.

O seu cirurgião adaptará o plano ao seu padrão de lesão específico. Quer escolha o tratamento não cirúrgico ou cirúrgico, o monitorização próxima é essencial. A ecografia não consegue distinguir objetivamente entre articulações saudáveis e hiper móveis, pelo que o seu histórico clínico e exame são vitais. Prepare-se para uma recuperação que exige paciência. Embora muitos pacientes tenham um bom resultado, alguns continuam a experimentar sintomas. O seu cirurgião ajudá-lo-á a navegar por estas possibilidades com expectativas realistas.

Quando procurar ajuda médica

Consulte o seu médico de família se tiver dor no cotovelo persistente que não melhora com repouso. Solicite uma avaliação especializada se sentir fraqueza, instabilidade ou se a articulação bloquear ou ceder. Procure atendimento se os sintomas interferirem no seu sono ou no trabalho. A piora súbita após um evento traumático também requer atenção. A instabilidade complexa envolve importantes estabilizadores ósseos e ligamentares. As luxações simples necessitam de avaliação clínica detalhada e acompanhamento radiográfico sequencial. A ultrassonografia não consegue distinguir objetivamente entre articulações saudáveis e hiper móveis. Um histórico clínico completo e o exame físico são vitais para um diagnóstico preciso.


Evidence & references

Overview

  • Complex instability of the elbow involves important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers [1].
  • Management protocols exist for common patterns of complex elbow injury [1].
  • Combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability requires surgical addressing of both directions to restore elbow stability [2].
  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment [3].
  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • Patients with lateral collateral ligament instability had resolution of symptoms and regained a near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation [5].
  • Long-term outcomes with surgical management of complex elbow injuries are unknown [6].
  • Treatments for elbow instability remain challenging in demanding cases, with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain [8].
  • Ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament results in acceptable functional outcomes for complex elbow instability [9].
  • Ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament results in a reoperation rate comparable with other joint stabilization procedures for complex elbow instability [9].
  • Lateral collateral ligament repair provides satisfactory outcomes for acute posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow [11].
  • Instability is the major complication of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, often requiring revision [13].
  • Linked total elbow arthroplasty is preferred for patients with posttraumatic articular damage, ligamentous instability, deformity, or bone loss [13].
  • All reconstruction methods for the lateral ulnar collateral ligament were able to sufficiently restore posterolateral rotatory stability of the elbow over the full range of motion [17].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

  • The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent elbow instability [4].
  • Complex instability of the elbow involves important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers [1].
  • Both posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability directions must be addressed surgically to restore elbow stability [2].
  • A distinction between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints is not possible via sonography, making complete clinical history and examination vital [7].
  • Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow remains to be fully understood [10].
  • Varus loads simulating everyday activities produce changes in varus joint angulation that are linearly dependent on the applied moment and persist after release of lateral stabilizing structures [26].
  • Proper balancing and adequate bone resection from the radial head are mandatory for obtaining normal elbow kinematics during radial head arthroplasty [27].
  • Elbow valgus torque increases contact pressure in the radiocapitellar joint [28].
  • The circumferential graft technique for multidirectional elbow instability was evaluated for stability against valgus and varus/posterolateral rotatory forces [29].
  • Proximal docking and single-point fixation hybrid ulnar collateral ligament reconstructions provided sufficient joint stability and strength compared to intact elbows, except for the proximal docking method at low flexion angles [30].
  • The Wrightington approach to the radial head is biomechanically superior to the posterolateral approach regarding changes in elbow laxity after surgery to the radial head [31].
  • Radial head displacement is greater after a simulated osteochondral lesion (OCL) at 30° to 60° of flexion compared with the intact elbow, but not as great as seen with sectioning of the lateral collateral ligament complex (LCLC) [32].
  • The capitellum alone does not contribute to elbow stability, whereas the trochlea has an important role [34].
  • A novel method for securing ligaments against bone during simultaneous medial and lateral elbow ligament reconstruction successfully prevented graft slippage without excessive construct displacement during static and dynamic testing [35].
  • The Orthofix elbow external fixator stabilizes the ligamentous unstable elbow joint efficiently but decreases the range of motion and constrains extension [36].
  • Both TightRope (TR) and traditional docking (DO) ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction techniques restored native joint kinematics from 15 to 75 degrees of flexion under low loading conditions [37].

Classification

  • Complex instability of the elbow involves important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers [1].
  • Combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability requires surgical addressing of both directions to restore stability [2].
  • Simple elbow dislocations require detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up for effective treatment [3].
  • The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent instability [4].
  • Lateral collateral ligament instability can result in symptoms of instability that resolve with treatment, allowing near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation [5].
  • Long-term outcomes with surgical management of complex elbow injuries are unknown [6].
  • Sonography does not allow an objective and reproducible distinction between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints [7].
  • Treatments for elbow instability remain challenging, with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain in demanding cases [8].
  • Instability is the major complication of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, often requiring revision [13].
  • Linked total elbow arthroplasty is preferred for patients with posttraumatic articular damage, ligamentous instability, deformity, or bone loss [13].
  • Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, suggesting the most common injury pattern may begin with medial-sided ligamentous disruption [14].
  • The posterolateral ligament of the elbow has a significant role in the elbow's posterolateral stability [16].
  • Stress ultrasonography shows different amounts of gapping with sectioning of the medial elbow stabilizers [24].

Clinical Presentation

  • Complex instability of the elbow involves important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers [1].
  • Combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability requires surgical addressing of both directions to restore stability [2].
  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent instability [4].
  • Patients with lateral collateral ligament instability had resolution of symptoms and regained a near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation [5].
  • Long-term outcomes with surgical management of complex elbow injuries are unknown [6].
  • Sonography cannot objectively distinguish between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints, making complete clinical history and examination vital [7].
  • Treatments for elbow instability remain challenging with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain in demanding cases [8].
  • Patients after conservatively treated simple elbow dislocations show good clinical and functional results [12].
  • Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, suggesting the most common injury pattern may begin with medial-sided ligamentous disruption [14].
  • Elbow arthroscopy is a useful tool for managing valgus extension overload when conservative treatments have failed [15].
  • The posterolateral ligament of the elbow has a significant role in the elbow's posterolateral stability [16].
  • Posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow exists in children but may be masked by contracture, with radiographs potentially showing evidence of instability [20].
  • Instability can coexist and may be associated with refractory lateral epicondylitis [21].
  • Symptomatic ulnar collateral ligament insufficiency in baseball players is associated with characteristic high-stress distribution patterns on the anterolateral part of the capitellum and the anterolateral part of the ulna [22].
  • Almost one half of patients suffering from recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis display signs of lateral ligamentous patholaxity [33].
  • Over 85% of patients with symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE) demonstrate at least one intra-articular abnormality [33].

Investigations

  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment [3].
  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent elbow instability [4].
  • A distinction between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints is not possible using sonography [7].
  • Obtaining a complete clinical history and examination is vital because sonography cannot distinguish between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints [7].
  • Posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow exists in children but may be masked by contracture [20].
  • Radiographs may show evidence of instability in children with posterolateral rotatory instability [20].
  • Instability can coexist and may be associated with refractory lateral epicondylitis [21].
  • Symptomatic ulnar collateral ligament insufficiency is associated with characteristic high-stress distribution patterns on the anterolateral part of the capitellum and the anterolateral part of the ulna [22].
  • Different amounts of gapping are seen on stress ultrasonography with sectioning of the medial elbow stabilizers [24].
  • No numerical value can confidently determine the pathologic status of the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow when using stress radiography [40].
  • An MRI should be performed if healing does not occur by a reasonable time despite successful bony healing to assess potential cartilage damage [41].

Treatment

  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • Patients after conservatively treated simple elbow dislocations show good clinical and functional results [12].
  • Both directions of instability must be addressed surgically to restore elbow stability in combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability [2].
  • Ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament results in acceptable functional outcomes and a reoperation rate comparable with other joint stabilization procedures for complex elbow instability [9].
  • Satisfactory outcomes are obtained with lateral collateral ligament repair for acute posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow [11].
  • All patients in the series had resolution of their symptoms of instability and regained a near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation following treatment for lateral collateral ligament instability [5].
  • R-LCL plication produces subjective satisfaction and positive clinical results in patients presenting with symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE) at 2-year median follow-up [18].
  • Both Jobe and Docking techniques are safe and effective in the treatment of posterolateral elbow instability [19].
  • Treatment of late instability is focused on lateral ligament reconstruction from the humerus to the ulna using tendon grafts with reasonably good outcomes [23].
  • Elbow arthroscopy is a useful tool for managing diseases of the elbow, including valgus extension overload, when conservative treatments have failed [15].
  • Ligament repair with suture anchors and hinged external fixator could be an option for treating ankylosed, severely or very severely stiff elbows after complete open release [39].
  • Instability is the major complication of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, often requiring revision [13].
  • Linked arthroplasty is preferred for patients with posttraumatic articular damage, ligamentous instability, deformity, or bone loss [13].
  • Despite progress in surgical techniques and rehabilitation, treatments for elbow instability remain challenging with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain in demanding cases [8].
  • Long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries is unknown [6].

Complications

  • Complex elbow instability involves important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers [1].
  • Combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability requires surgical addressing of both directions to restore stability [2].
  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent instability [4].
  • Patients with lateral collateral ligament instability had resolution of symptoms and regained near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation [5].
  • Long-term outcomes with surgical management of complex elbow injuries are unknown [6].
  • Sonography cannot objectively distinguish between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints, making complete clinical history and examination vital [7].
  • Ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament for complex elbow instability results in acceptable functional outcomes and a reoperation rate comparable with other joint stabilization procedures [9].
  • Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow remains to be fully understood [10].
  • Satisfactory outcomes were obtained with lateral collateral ligament repair for acute posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow [11].
  • Patients after conservatively treated simple elbow dislocations show good clinical and functional results [12].
  • Instability is the major complication of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, often requiring revision [13].
  • Linked arthroplasty is preferred for patients with posttraumatic articular damage, ligamentous instability, deformity, or bone loss [13].
  • Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, suggesting the most common injury pattern may begin with medial-sided ligamentous disruption [14].
  • R-LCL plication produces subjective satisfaction and positive clinical results in patients presenting with symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE) at 2-year median follow-up [18].
  • Ligaments of the elbow may not heal or tighten sufficiently over time, and removal of a radial head prosthesis may give rise to problems, even up to 5 years after prosthetic removal [25].
  • Longer-term studies are required to ascertain whether the apparent benefits of radial head arthroplasty are offset by late complications such as loosening [38].

Recovery

  • Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up [3].
  • Patients after conservatively treated simple elbow dislocations show good clinical and functional results [12].
  • Residual increased valgus stress angulation and posterolateral rotatory translation can occur after simple elbow dislocation [12].
  • Ligaments of the elbow may not heal or tighten sufficiently over time, and removal of a radial head prosthesis may give rise to stability problems even up to 5 years after prosthetic removal [25].
  • For complex elbow instability, ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament results in acceptable functional outcomes [9].
  • Ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament for complex elbow instability has a reoperation rate comparable with other joint stabilization procedures [9].
  • Direct repair of traumatic tears of the lateral ulnar collateral ligumant yields satisfactory outcomes for acute posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow [11].
  • No significant difference in clinical outcome or range of motion was observed after direct repair of traumatic tears of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament between acute and delayed treatment cohorts [42].
  • R-LCL plication produces subjective satisfaction and positive clinical results in patients presenting with symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE) at 2-year median follow-up [18].
  • Treatment of late instability is focused on lateral ligament reconstruction from the humerus to the ulna using tendon grafts, which yields reasonably good outcomes [23].
  • All patients in a series of lateral collateral ligament instability cases had resolution of their symptoms of instability and regained a near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation [5].
  • Treatments for elbow instability remain challenging with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain in demanding cases [8].
  • Long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries is unknown [6].

Key Evidence

  • [Paper] This article discusses the important osseous and ligamentous stabilizers of the elbow joint and provides management protocols for the common patterns of complex injury encountered by the practising surgeon. [1] (10.1016/j.injury.2013.09.032)
  • [L4] Both directions of instability must be addressed surgically to restore elbow stability. [2] (10.1016/j.injury.2007.01.039)
  • [L5] Effective treatment of simple elbow dislocations requires a detailed clinical assessment and sequential radiographic follow-up. [3] (10.1016/j.hcl.2015.06.002)
  • [L5] The elbow consists of static and dynamic stabilizers that function in synchrony to prevent elbow instability. [4] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.11.025)
  • [L4] All patients in the series had resolution of their symptoms of instability and regained a near full arc of elbow flexion and forearm rotation. [5] (10.1016/j.hcl.2007.11.001)
  • [L5] Long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries is unknown. [6] (10.5435/00124635-200605000-00003)
  • [L3] Nevertheless, a distinction between healthy and hypermobile elbow joints is not possible, and therefore, obtaining a complete clinical history and examination is vital. [7] (10.1016/j.jse.2020.11.023)
  • [L5] Despite progress in surgical techniques and rehabilitation, treatments for elbow instability remain challenging with high rates of persistent instability, post-traumatic arthritis, stiffness, and pain in demanding cases. [8] (10.1136/jisakos-2019-000316)
  • [L4] For complex elbow instability, ligament repair with suture-tape augmentation of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament results in acceptable functional outcomes and a reoperation rate comparable with other joint stabilization procedures. [9] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.10.016)
  • [L4] PLRI of the elbow remains to be fully understood. [10] (10.1016/j.arthro.2014.02.029)
  • [L4] We obtained satisfactory outcomes with lateral collateral ligament repair for acute posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow. [11] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.06.018)
  • [L4] Patients after conservatively treated simple elbow dislocations show good clinical and functional results. [12] (10.1007/s00167-016-4176-0)
  • [L4] Instability is the major complication of unlinked total elbow arthroplasty, often requiring revision, whereas linked arthroplasty is preferred for patients with posttraumatic articular damage, ligamentous instability, deformity, or bone loss. [13] (10.1016/j.hcl.2007.11.002)
  • [L4] Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, suggesting that the most common injury pattern may begin with a medial-sided ligamentous disruption. [14] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.11.031)
  • [Paper] Elbow arthroscopy is a useful tool for managing diseases of the elbow, including valgus extension overload, when conservative treatments have failed. [15] (10.1016/j.eats.2016.04.005)
  • [L4] The PLL of the elbow has a significant role in the elbow's posterolateral stability. [16] (10.1016/j.jse.2023.08.033)
  • [L5] All reconstruction methods were able to sufficiently restore posterolateral rotatory stability of the elbow over the full range of motion. [17] (10.1007/s00167-015-3627-3)
  • [L4] R-LCL plication produces subjective satisfaction and positive clinical results in patients presenting with a symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE) at 2-year median follow-up. [18] (10.1007/s00167-017-4531-9)
  • [L1] This systematic review showed that both Jobe and Docking techniques are safe and effective in the treatment of posterolateral elbow instability. [19] (10.1016/j.injury.2020.11.010)
  • [L4] Posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow exists in children but may be masked by contracture; radiographs may show evidence of instability. [20] (10.2106/jbjs.l.00623)
  • [L1] Instability can coexist and may be associated with refractory lateral epicondylitis. [21] (10.1177/0363546520980133)
  • [L4] Symptomatic UCL insufficiency was associated with characteristic high-stress distribution patterns on the anterolateral part of the capitellum and the anterolateral part of the ulna. [22] (10.1177/0363546515624916)
  • [L5] Treatment of late instability is focused on lateral ligament reconstruction from the humerus to the ulna using tendon grafts with reasonably good outcomes. [23] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.10.030)
  • [L5] The results suggest that different amounts of gapping are seen on stress ultrasonography with sectioning of the medial elbow stabilizers. [24] (10.1177/0363546514542805)
  • [L5] This case illustrates that sometimes ligaments of the elbow may not heal or tighten sufficiently over time and that despite a careful examination elbow and forearm stability, removal of a radial head prosthesis may give rise to problems, even up to 5 years after prosthetic removal. [25] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.04.046)
  • [L5] Varus loads simulating everyday activities produce changes in the varus joint angulation of the elbow that are linearly dependent on the applied moment and persist after release of the lateral stabilizing structures. [26] (10.1177/03635465211018208)
  • [L5] Proper balancing and adequate bone resection from radial head is mandatory for obtaining normal elbow kinematics during the radial head arthroplasty procedure. [27] (10.1007/s00402-006-0164-z)
  • [L5] Elbow valgus torque increases contact pressure in the radiocapitellar joint. [28] (10.1177/0363546513490652)
  • [L5] The study evaluated stability against valgus and varus/posterolateral rotatory forces in cadaveric elbows. [29] (10.1016/j.jse.2015.07.016)
  • [L5] Both the proximal docking and the single-point fixation hybrid reconstructions provided sufficient joint stability and strength compared to the intact elbows, with the exception of the proximal docking method at low flexion angles. [30] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.040)
  • [L5] These results suggest that the newly described Wrightington approach is biomechanically superior to the posterolateral approach with regard to changes in elbow laxity after surgery to the radial head. [31] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.08.009)
  • [L5] The degree of radial head displacement is greater after a simulated OCL at 30° to 60° of flexion compared with the intact elbow but not as great as seen with sectioning of the LCLC. [32] (10.1016/j.jse.2018.02.045)
  • [L3] Almost one half of patients suffering from recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis display signs of lateral ligamentous patholaxity, and over 85% demonstrate at least one intra-articular abnormality. [33] (10.1007/s00167-017-4530-x)
  • [L5] While the capitellum alone does not contribute to elbow stability, the trochlea has an important role. [34] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.02.002)
  • [L5] This method of fixation to the proximal ulna for the simultaneous reconstruction of medial and lateral elbow ligaments successfully prevented graft slippage without excessive construct displacement during static and dynamic testing. [35] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.02.008)
  • [L5] The Orthofix elbow external fixator stabilizes the ligamentous unstable elbow joint efficiently but at the expense of changes in the normal motion pattern, specifically decreasing the range of motion and constraining extension. [36] (10.1016/j.jse.2006.07.012)
  • [L5] Both the TR and DO techniques restored native joint kinematics from 15 to 75 degrees of flexion under low loading conditions. [37] (10.1177/0363546513482567)
  • [L3] Longer-term studies will be required to ascertain whether the apparent benefits of radial head arthroplasty are offset by late complications of arthroplasty, such as loosening. [38] (10.1007/s11999-013-3331-x)
  • [L4] This could be an option for treating ankylosed, severely or very severely stiff elbows. [39] (10.1016/j.jse.2014.03.013)
  • [L3] No numerical value can confidently determine the pathologic status of the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow when using stress radiography. [40] (10.1177/03635465010290050601)
  • [Case_report] The authors recommend performing an MRI if healing does not occur by a reasonable time despite successful bony healing to assess potential cartilage damage. [41] (10.1007/s00402-005-0018-0)
  • [L3] No significant difference in clinical outcome or range of motion was observed after direct repair of traumatic tears of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament between acute and delayed treatment cohorts. [42] (10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.02.011)

References

[1] Complex instability of the elbow. Injury. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2013.09.032 [2] Combined posterolateral and posteromedial rotatory instability of the elbow. Injury Extra. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2007.01.039 [3] Simple Elbow Dislocation. Hand Clinics. 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2015.06.002 [4] Elbow Instability: Anatomy, Biomechanics, Diagnostic Maneuvers, and Testing. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2017. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2016.11.025 [5] Lateral Collateral Ligament Instability of the Elbow. Hand Clinics. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2007.11.001 [6] Complex Elbow Instability. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2006. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-200605000-00003 [7] Does sonography allow an objective and reproducible distinction between stable, hypermobile, and unstable elbow joints?. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2020.11.023 [8] Treatment of elbow instability: state of the art. Journal of ISAKOS. 2021. DOI: 10.1136/jisakos-2019-000316 [9] Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Suture-Tape Augmentation for Traumatic Elbow Instability. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2022.10.016 [10] Surgical Treatment of Posterolateral Rotatory Instability of the Elbow. Arthroscopy. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2014.02.029 [11] Ligamentous repair of acute lateral collateral ligament rupture of the elbow. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.06.018 [12] Residual increased valgus stress angulation and posterolateral rotatory translation after simple elbow dislocation. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2016. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-016-4176-0 [13] Instability After Total Elbow Arthroplasty. Hand Clinics. 2008. DOI: 10.1016/j.hcl.2007.11.002 [14] Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Acute Elbow Dislocation: Insight Into Mechanism. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.11.031 [15] Valgus Extension Overload: Arthroscopic Decompression in the Supine‐Suspended Position. Arthroscopy Techniques. 2016. DOI: 10.1016/j.eats.2016.04.005 [16] The posterolateral ligament of the elbow: anatomy and clinical relevance. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2023.08.033 [17] Reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow: a comparative biomechanical study. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2015. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-015-3627-3 [18] Arthroscopic R-LCL plication for symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE). Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2017. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-017-4531-9 [19] Lateral collateral ulnar ligament reconstruction techniques in posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow: A systematic review. Injury. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.injury.2020.11.010 [20] Clinical Presentation of Posterolateral Rotatory Instability of the Elbow in Children. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2013. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.l.00623 [21] Systematic Review of Elbow Instability in Association With Refractory Lateral Epicondylitis: Myth or Fact?. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2021. DOI: 10.1177/0363546520980133 [22] Alteration of Stress Distribution Patterns in Symptomatic Valgus Instability of the Elbow in Baseball Players. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2016. DOI: 10.1177/0363546515624916 [23] Elbow Lateral Collateral Ligament Injuries. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.10.030 [24] Stress Ultrasound Evaluation of Medial Elbow Instability in a Cadaveric Model. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2014. DOI: 10.1177/0363546514542805 [25] Delayed valgus instability and proximal migration of the radius after radial head prosthesis failure. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.04.046 [26] Lateral Elbow Laxity Is Affected by the Integrity of the Radial Band of the Lateral Collateral Ligament Complex: A Cadaveric Model With Sequential Releases and Varus Stress Simulating Everyday Activities. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2021. DOI: 10.1177/03635465211018208 [27] Importance of radial head on elbow kinematics: radial head prosthesis. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery. 2006. DOI: 10.1007/s00402-006-0164-z [28] Biomechanical Characteristics of Osteochondral Defects of the Humeral Capitellum. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2013. DOI: 10.1177/0363546513490652 [29] The circumferential graft technique for treatment of multidirectional elbow instability: a comparative biomechanical evaluation. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2016. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2015.07.016 [30] A Biomechanical Comparison of 2 Hybrid Techniques for Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.07.040 [31] The Wrightington Approach to the Radial Head: Biomechanical Comparison With the Posterolateral Approach. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2007.08.009 [32] The contribution of the posterolateral capsule to elbow joint stability: a cadaveric biomechanical investigation. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2018. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2018.02.045 [33] Intra-articular findings in symptomatic minor instability of the lateral elbow (SMILE). Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2017. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-017-4530-x [34] Effect of coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus on elbow kinematics and stability. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.02.002 [35] Testing of a Novel Method for Securing Ligaments Against Bone During Simultaneous Medial and Lateral Elbow Ligament Reconstruction. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2023.02.008 [36] Kinematics of the ligamentous unstable elbow joint after application of a hinged external fixation device: A cadaveric study. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2006.07.012 [37] Biomechanical Evaluation of the TightRope Versus Traditional Docking Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Technique. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2013. DOI: 10.1177/0363546513482567 [38] Fixation Versus Replacement of Radial Head in Terrible Triad: Is There a Difference in Elbow Stability and Prognosis?. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11999-013-3331-x [39] Stability of severely stiff elbows after complete open release: treatment by ligament repair with suture anchors and hinged external fixator. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2014.03.013 [40] Valgus Laxity of the Ulnar Collateral Ligament of the Elbow in Collegiate Athletes. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2001. DOI: 10.1177/03635465010290050601 [41] Are bone bruises a possible cause of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum? a case report and review of the literature. Archives of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery. 2005. DOI: 10.1007/s00402-005-0018-0 [42] Direct Repair for Managing Acute and Chronic Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Disruptions. The Journal of Hand Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.02.011