The "terrible triad" of the elbow is a rare traumatic injury that must be managed properly for an adequate functional outcome.
Elements of the terrible triad:
(1) fracture of the radial head
(2) fracture of the coronoid process
(3) elbow dislocation
Variants exist based on
(1) the different types of fracture that can occur.
(2) other traumatic injuries present
Risk factors:
(1) male gender
(2) high energy trauma
(3) fall onto an outstretched hand with elbow in hyperextension, supination and valgus stress
Surgery is the usual method of management. Conservative therapy can result in significant complications.
Complications:
(1) ulnar nerve palsy
(2) arthritis
(3) dystrophic calcification
(4) decreased range of motion
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Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic, Emergency Medicine, Critical Care, Surgery, general
