Elbow Soft Tissue Coverage after Trauma

Abstract

Traumatic injuries involving the elbow can result in soft tissue defects with exposed critical structures including bone, joint, nerve, tendons or implants. Additionally, wounds about the elbow are subject to significant motion and tension, limiting the success of local wound care. In these clinical settings, soft tissue reconstruction is often indicated. The goal of reconstruction is elbow wound coverage with pliable, thin, and durable tissue that allows for repetitive motion without limiting range of motion. In the post-traumatic setting, optimal function is achieved if the soft tissue reconstruction allows for early return to active motion of the elbow joint.