Painful Locking Elbow in a Child with Congenital Proximal Radioulnar Synostosis

Abstract

Painful snapping or locking in the elbow is an uncommon presentation that has been observed in children with proximal radioulnar synostosis. Only a few cases have been reported in the English language literature. In this report, we present the case of a painful locking elbow in a 12-year-old boy with a congenital proximal radioulnar synostosis. We describe its symptoms, signs, radiographic appearance, surgical treatment, and outcome, and review the relevant literature. Key words: annular ligament, congenital radioulnar synostosis, elbow, locking, snapping