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How To Reduce a Posterior Elbow Dislocation
Aftercare for Posterior Elbow Dislocation Reduction
Do a post-procedure neurovascular examination. A post-procedure neurovascular deficit warrants emergent orthopedic evaluation. Check the elbow for stability by fully flexing and extending the elbow while pronating and supinating the forearm. These movements should be easy after reduction. Do post-procedure x-rays to confirm proper reduction and identify any coexisting fractures. Immobilize the elbow at about 90° of flexion with the forearm in the neutral position or pronation in a posterior long arm splint. Donotuse a circumferential cast. Observe patient for 2 to 3 hours. Patients with significant soft tissue swelling, hematoma, or questionable vascular/neurologic integrity should be admitted for continuing observation, either to an emergency department observation unit or to a hospital. Arrange this with the orthopedic surgeon. If the patient is discharged to home, arrange follow-up care with the orthopedic surgeon and instruct the patient to return if swelling worsens, for progressively increasing severe pain, or if the fingers develop cyanosis, coolness, weakness, or paresthesias. 