Elbow anatomy

Alcid JG, Ahmad CS, Lee TQ. Elbow anatomy and structural biomechanics. Clin Sports Med 2004 October 23(4) 503-17, vii. 

Elbow is one of the most complex articular anatomy of human joint. Distal humerus, Proximal radius, and Proximal ulna are three elbow joint bones which are connected by tendons, ligaments and muscles [1]. Most famous disease that can affect normal elbow s function is rheumatoid arthritis that weaken the function status of patient. Total elbow arthroplasty can be the best decision for those patients that has advance elbow dysfunction, regarding to relive the pain and restore the normal physiological function [2]. Like all other joint replacement some complication such as instability, loosening, dislocation, polyethylene wear and infection, has restricted the long term survivorship of Total elbow arthroplasty [3]. 

A brief description of the complex anatomy of the elbow with emphasis given to the anatomic features amenable to US examination, including joints and ligament complexes, muscles and tendons, neurovascular structures and bursae, is included here. 

Fig. 8.2a,h. Elbow joint. Articular anatomy, a Schematic drawing of a midsagittal view through an extended elbow with b CT scan correlation demonstrates the articular relationship between the trochlea of the humerus (H) and the trochlear groove of the ulna (U), leading to flexion and extension joint movements. The extrasynovial anterior (asterisk) and posterior (star) fat pads are closely applied to the distal end of the humerus and lie just superficial to the joint space (in black). Note the insertion of the brachialis (Br) and the triceps (tr) muscles, which are the main flexor and extensor muscles of the elbow respectively... 

Figure 10.1). However, as the longevity of TEA has increased, UHMWPE wear and osteolysis has become an increased concern. This chapter will review the basic anatomy of the elbow joint, address contemporary and historic designs, as well as design-related issues for TEA. 

Bryce CD, Armstrong AD. Anatomy and biomechanics of the elbow. Orthop Clini North Am 2008 April 39(2) 141-54, v. 

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