Although the term articularis cubiti muscle is incorporated in the official anatomical nomenclature, only sparse data about its appearance are available. It is usually described as few fibres originating from the medial head of the triceps brachii muscle and inserting to the capsule of the elbow joint. However, the most recent observations regarding the morphological relations in the posterior elbow region point towards the absence of a well-defined muscle. Therefore, this study was designed to verify the existence of the articularis cubiti muscle in question and to compile more data on the topographical features of the subtricipital area near the posterior aspect of the elbow. To address these questions, 20 embalmed upper limbs were dissected, and seven samples were collected for histological analysis. The laboratory findings were then correlated with 20 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the elbow. Consequently, a narrative review of literature was performed to gain more information on the discussed muscle in a historical context. Upon the anatomical dissection, muscular fibres running from the posterior aspect of the shaft of the humerus to the elbow joint capsule and olecranon were identified in 100% of cases. Histologically, the connection with the joint capsule was provided via winding bands of connective tissue. On MRIs, the muscular fibres resembled a well-demarcated thin muscle located underneath the medial head of the triceps brachii muscle. Combined with the review of literature, we concluded that the constant articularis cubiti muscle originates from the posterior shaft of the humerus and attaches indirectly to the posterior aspect of the elbow joint capsule and directly to the superior portion of the olecranon. The obtained results slightly differ from the modern description, but are in agreement with the original publication, which has become misinterpreted throughout time. Presumably, the misused description has led to questioning the existence of an independent muscle. Moreover, our findings attribute to the articularis cubiti muscle, a function in pulling on the posterior aspect of the elbow joint capsule to prevent its entrapment, and possibly also a minor role in extension of the forearm. The presented results should be taken into consideration when intervening with the posterior aspect of the elbow joint because the articularis cubiti muscle poses a consistently appearing landmark.
There are many osseous variants that occur around the elbow joint such as supracondylar process, supratrochlear foramen, accessory ossicles, and others. Scientific databases were searched for variants around the elbow joint. Elbow radiographs from our center demonstrating some of these findings were included in the study. The aim of the present review was to provide comprehensive information on the terminology, prevalence, history, etiology, and clinical importance of these variants. These anatomical variants are important for radiologists while interpreting radiographs, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging for trauma and orthopedic surgeons during osteosynthesis at the distal humerus, proximal ulna, and radius.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to define a standardized comprehensive sonographic approach for evaluating the different histoanatomical compartments of the lateral elbow. DESIGN: Using high-frequency ultrasound probes, we tried to match the anatomical features of the lateral elbow and its different sonographic patterns in patients with the diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis. Moreover, high-sensitive color/power Doppler assessments have also been performed to evaluate the microcirculation. RESULTS: Modern ultrasound equipment seems to provide an extremely detailed sonographic assessment of the different anatomical layers located in the lateral compartment of the elbow. Moreover, high-sensitive color/power Doppler imaging allows for clear visualization of the perfusion patterns in pathological conditions. CONCLUSIONS: In clinical practice, high-frequency B-mode and high-sensitive color/power Doppler imaging can be integrated with the clinical findings to better define the pain generator(s) for optimizing the management of patients with lateral epicondylitis.
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Elbow Joint * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Muscles MeSH
- Tennis Elbow * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Ultrasonography MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- MeSH
- Joint Dislocations diagnosis complications therapy MeSH
- Humeral Fractures diagnostic imaging complications therapy MeSH
- Ulna Fractures diagnostic imaging complications therapy MeSH
- Elbow Fractures * diagnostic imaging complications therapy MeSH
- Radius Fractures diagnostic imaging complications therapy MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow Joint surgery diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Orthopedic Procedures methods MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Review MeSH
BACKGROUND: Ultrasound (US) guided intra-articular elbow injections are commonly performed in clinical practice. OBJECTIVE: To describe a proximal to distal approach for US-guided intra-articular elbow injection. DESIGN: Cadaveric study. SETTINGS: Academic institution. METHODS: Both elbows of a single cadaver were injected with green-colored water-diluted latex dye using the US-guided proximal to distal approach. In the left elbow, the needle was kept in situ; in the right elbow, the needle was removed. Subsequently, a layer-by-layer anatomical dissection was performed in both elbows. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Presence and distribution of the latex dye and location of the needle tip within the elbow joint capsule. RESULTS: Anatomical dissection of both elbows confirmed the correct intra-articular position of the needle tip in the left elbow as well as correct placement of the latex dye bilaterally. During layer-by-layer dissection of the left elbow, the position of the radial nerve was observed anterior to the needle. CONCLUSIONS: This cadaveric observation demonstrated that the US-guided proximal to distal approach is a convenient technique to access the elbow joint. Compared to the previously described techniques, the in-plane, proximal to distal approach may provide excellent needle visibility during the entire procedure, precisely targeting the articular space. The preliminary data need to be validated in additional clinical studies.
- MeSH
- Injections, Intra-Articular methods MeSH
- Ultrasonography, Interventional methods MeSH
- Latex MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow MeSH
- Elbow Joint * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Cadaver MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
CME Sonography 107: Ultrasound Elbow Cases Abstract. In this article, we discuss exemplary sonographic pathologies at the anterior, lateral, medial, and posterior elbow, highlighting important structures that should be systematically examined in the corresponding elbow region.
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Elbow Joint * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Ultrasonography MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- English Abstract MeSH
- Journal Article MeSH
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow MeSH
- Elbow Joint * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Radial Neuropathy * diagnostic imaging etiology MeSH
- Arthritis, Rheumatoid * complications diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Letter MeSH
This introduction to ultrasound evaluation of the elbow describes the basic scanning planes and contains corresponding high-resolution ultrasound images. The patient and probe positionings are explained in a simplified step-by-step manner using schematic drawings. This standard and simple examination technique seems to be an appropriate way to improve the learning curve of novice musculoskeletal sonographers. In this manuscript, an emphasis is placed on effusion detection, ulnar nerve imaging, and commonly injured tendons assessment. This article also describes some common pitfalls to avoid when starting with musculoskeletal ultrasonography (e.g. positioning issues, unsolicited artifacts). Key words: tendons, elbow tendinopathy, golfer's elbow, tennis elbow, musculoskeletal, protocol, ultrasound, common extensor tendon, common flexor tendon, ulnar nerve.
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow * MeSH
- Elbow Joint * diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Tendons diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Ultrasonography MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- MeSH
- Hand Joints diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Knee Joint diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Hip Joint diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow Joint diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging MeSH
- Joint Instability * diagnostic imaging etiology prevention & control MeSH
- Postoperative Care MeSH
- Shoulder Joint diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Wrist Joint diagnostic imaging pathology MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Review MeSH
We introduce an ergonomic positioning for sonographic scanning of elbow joint where the patient is lying semisupine on the examination bed. This is in contrast with the conventional positioning where the patient is sitting on the edge of the bed or across the table on a chair. Our proposed positioning is more comfortable for both the patient and ultrasound practitioner. It also allows immediate ultrasound-guided injections with lesser risk regarding a vasovagal syncope of the patient.
- MeSH
- Humans MeSH
- Elbow Joint diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Joint Diseases diagnostic imaging MeSH
- Patient Positioning methods MeSH
- Ultrasonography methods MeSH
- Check Tag
- Humans MeSH
- Publication type
- Journal Article MeSH
- Review MeSH
