Scott Gregoire MD, BS, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Martin H. Reed MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Brian Black, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To classify the types of pediatric elbow dislocations by direction, associated fractures and growth plate maturity.

The medical records and radiographs of children with acute traumatic dislocations of the elbow presenting to a major referral center between 1972 and 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. 114 elbow dislocations were identified and 104 children meet the inclusion criterion. The radiographs were then reviewed by a blinded pediatric radiologist. The direction of the dislocation, associated fractures and growth plate maturity were assessed.

Posterolateral dislocation was seen in 63% of all dislocations. Posterior dislocation was seen in 19% of the children. The remaining types of dislocation were seen in a minority of patients. 76% of the patients had at least one associated fracture. 78% of the children with unfused epiphyseal plates had an associated fracture while 64% of the children with closed growth plates had an associated fracture. There were three divergent dislocations and two convergent dislocations in this study.

The population of children with fused epiphyseal plates did not resemble an adult fracture-dislocation pattern of elbow injuries. Posterolateral dislocation was the most common dislocation type. All dislocations without a posterior or divergent component had 100% fracture rates.

To describe the pattern of injuries found in traumatic dislocation of the elbow and to assist radiologists in making accurate diagnoses of these complex injuries.

Gregoire, S, Reed, M, Black, B, Traumatic Elbow Dislocations in Children.  Radiological Society of North America 2009 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 29 - December 4, 2009 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2009/8002234.html