Anatomy and Specimens

Abstract

The elbow is a complex anatomical district, and every orthopedic surgeon who approaches its pathologies has to be aware of the noble structures that surround and are so close to the bony and ligamentous structures. First of all, the surgeon must start his experience on cadaver specimen. The first thing to know is the anatomy of the peripheral nerves of the elbow to prevent any injuries during surgical approaches. So the young surgeon has to explore and understand the position of the principal nerves of the upper arm through dissection on specimen. This practice permits to the surgeon to predict the position of the nerves especially in pathological settings. The second part of the chapter is focused on the surgical approaches to the elbow. In our description, we focused the attention to the most employed routes to the joint. For the posterior and medial approach, it is fundamental to know where the ulnar nerve is. In lateral approach, care has to be taken to the lateral collateral ligament complex and to the posterior interosseous nerve. The anterior approach is dangerous for humeral artery, but also posterior interosseous nerve is at risk, especially during reinsertion of the distal biceps tendon. Every surgeon who approaches the elbow has to know the risks that incur if the anatomy is not strictly respected.