Surgical Approaches to the Elbow

Question 1

What is the interval for the anterolateral approach for the elbow?

Answer 1

Proximally:
brachialis (musculocutaneous/radial n) and the brachioradialis (radial n)
Distally:
brachioradialis (musculocutaneous n./radial n.) and pronator teres (median n.)

Question 2

Where does the lateral antebrachial cutaneous become superficial?

Answer 2

5cm proximal to the elbow crease, lateral to the biceps tendon.

Question 3

What vessel must be ligated to mobilize the brachialis during the anterolateral approach to the elbow?

Answer 3

Recurrent radial a.

Question 4

What is the interval for the medial approach for the elbow?

Answer 4

Proximally:
Triceps (radial n.) and brachialis (musculocutaneous/radial n.)
Distally:
Brachialis (musculocutaneous/radial n.)

Question 5

What is the interval for the posterior approach for the elbow?

Answer 5

There is no plane; triceps is either split, mobilized medial/lateral and/or detached

Question 6

What has been associated with transposition of the ulnar nerve following fixation of an intra-articular distal humerus fracture?

Answer 6

Increased incidence of ulnar n. neuritis