Conservative treatment of congenital radial head subluxation and non-traumatic elbow locking: A case report

Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2024 Mar 21;35(2):410-416. doi: 10.52312/jdrs.2024.1608. Epub 2024 Mar 21.

Abstract

Congenital radial head subluxation is relatively rare and may be overlooked due to mild symptoms. The diagnosis mainly relies on imaging and history. Observation is an option for those with insignificant symptoms, while surgical intervention, such as ulnar osteotomy or arthroscopy, is often required when dysfunction exists. A 30-year-old man was admitted with congenital radial head dislocation, which was treated with manipulative repositioning. During follow-up, the patient regained the original mobility of the elbow joint and had no recurrence of dislocation. In conclusion, in adults with congenital dislocation of the radial head, we recommend conservative treatment as a first step.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Conservative Treatment* / methods
  • Elbow Joint* / diagnostic imaging
  • Elbow Joint* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Joint Dislocations* / congenital
  • Joint Dislocations* / diagnostic imaging
  • Joint Dislocations* / surgery
  • Joint Dislocations* / therapy
  • Male
  • Manipulation, Orthopedic / methods
  • Radius* / abnormalities
  • Radius* / diagnostic imaging
  • Radius* / surgery
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Treatment Outcome