Reduction of a Luxated Elbow

Reduction of a luxated elbow. An assisting person holds the distal end of the upper arm with both hands, and the one performing the reduction pulls the forearm with both hands first in the direction of the forearm and then extends the elbow gently (a). The actual reposition is performed by bending the elbow (holding by the wrist) and at the same time pushing the forearm by the elbow (olecranon) towards the wrist with the other hand (b). The assistant keeps the upper arm fixed during the procedure. It is essential that the patient is relaxed. For this purpose, sufficient analgetic medication is important. Administration of an intraarticular anaesthetic is often beneficial (the most secure route for the injection being on the distal and radial side of the olecranon).

Picture: Duodecim Medical Publications Ltd