[Articulated external fixator at the elbow].
The principle of the articulated external fixator following elbow dislocation and fracture-dislocations of the elbow joint is a helpful adjunct to the surgical armamentarium. It protects a difficult reconstruction of the joint surfaces, the capsule and the ligaments against potentially harmful forces while allowing passive and active motion to prevent arthrofibrosis due to long-term immobilization of the elbow joint. The articulated external fixator further represents a salvage procedure for delayed reconstructions and distraction arthrolysis, as well. A precise surgical technique is a prerequisite for the success of the procedure.
Abteilung für Unfall- und Wiederherstellungschirurgie, Chirurgische Klinik und Poliklinik der Universität Rostock, Rostock, Germany. thomas.mittlmeier@med.uni-rostock.de
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D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D016267:External Fixators; D005592:Fracture Fixation / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000601:surgery*; D000092464:Elbow Injuries