Musculoskeletal - Elbow Effusion (Traumatic)
.gif)
Caption
Aspiration of traumatic elbow effusions may be considered in the management of radial head fracture. Slide a linear transducer along the forearm towards the elbow until the radial head, effusion and capitellum are seen. Using an out of plane approach, insert a needle into the effusion. The syringe will fill itself under intrinsic pressure. Relief is often instantaneous and prolonged and the range of motion of the elbow will increase dramatically Dr Cian McDermott, Emergency Physician, Mater University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland