1. Fracture of the medial epicondyle may be a complication of posterior dislocation of the elbow joint.
2. Occasionally, in reduction of the dislocation, the detached epicondyle may become incarcerated in the joint with consequent limitation to full motion and with the possibility of the development of a traumatic arthritis at a later period.
3. Operative removal is indicated if closed manipulation is unsuccessful in removing the detached epicondyle from the joint space.
4. Occasionally, the ulnar nerve is carried along with the epicondyle, and an immediate or delayed ulnar neuritis may develop.
5. Operative interference is indicated if an ulnar neuritis occurs.
6. If an open operation is required in the treatment of these complications of posterior dislocation of the elbow, removal of the epicondyle from the joint and transplantation of the ulnar nerve anteriorly are the objectives.
7. These particular complications should be kept in mind in cases of posterior dislocation of the elbow joint, especially in children.