Managenent neglected dislocation of the elbow

Unreduced elbow is defined as dislocation not treated within three weeks of injury.such an elbow is fixed in either extension or flexion, with only a few degrees of flexion, supination or pronation, and has a range of movement that is inadequate for the activities of daily living. This condition is generally associated with sever instability, limitation of elbow function and significant pain. If the elbow not reduced, arthritic changes may develop rapidly. The main goals of therapy are to restore stable, concentric joint and regain a satisfactory painless arc of motion. The time since injury and patient age determine the mode of treatment by open reduction for late cases. Total elbow arthroplasty, exisional arthroplasty or arthrodesis is adviced for cases presenting after three months.