Abstract
Elbow dislocations are relatively uncommon in children, and most cases present with
associated fractures. Complete elbow dislocations are relatively rare, and may involve
an increased likelihood of severe soft-tissue injuries. A potential complication is
the development of heterotopic ossification, which is usually asymptomatic, but may
disturb the joint motion. We describe a case of an 11-year-old girl who sustained
an elbow dislocation without associated fractures, but with partial distal disruption
of the brachialis muscle. Following closed reduction, the patient developed heterotopic
ossification in the anterior distal third of the humerus and loss of range of motion.
Surgical treatment with excision of heterotopic ossification through a direct lateral
approach provided an excellent result. Heterotopic ossification is a potential complication
following elbow dislocation in children, and surgical excision through a lateral approach
is an option of treatment when there is functional limitation. Before making the decision
to perform surgery, the maturation of the ossification process must be observed.
Keywords
adolescent - child - elbow joint - heterotopic ossification - joint dislocations
