ABSTRACT

To share the outcomes of closed reduction and early mobilization in patients with simple elbow dislocation.

From 2008 to 2015, 18 adult patients with simple elbow dislocations were enrolled in the Emergency Department of our hospital. All the patients received closed reduction under sedation. After reduction, a long arm cast was applied to all patients for one week. Early active movement was begun at the end of this week. Patients were not allowed to do passive stretching exercises for three weeks. All patients were followed up at the first week, sixth week and first year. Patients were evaluated both radiographically and functionally with Quick-DASH and Oxford Elbow Score. The results were evaluated by comparison with patients' contralateral elbow.

Quick-DASH scores at 1 year were 5.0 in the dislocation group versus 4.0 in the contralateral elbow. Oxford Elbow Scores at 1 year were 91 in the dislocation group versus 95 in the contralateral elbow. There was no significant relationship between the two groups at the first year controls (p>0.05). There was no significant difference in terms of range of motion (p>0.05). Patients returned to work sooner after early mobilization (average of 12 days). No recurrent dislocations occurred. After one year, there was no significant deterioration with radiographic joint integrity in any patient.

Early active mobilization is a safe and effective treatment for simple elbow dislocations. Patients recovered faster and returned to work earlier compared to plaster immobilization.

Keywords: Simple elbow dislocation, closed reduction, early rehabilitation