Surgical Anatomy of the Nerves Around the Elbow

Abstract

The elbow joint is a complex structure that provides important functions and forms the mechanical link in the upper extremity between the hand, the wrist and the shoulder. Its primary functions include the positioning of the hand in space, and loss of this can cause significant impairment in carrying out daily-life activities. The elbow joint is crossed by various nerve structures which may be put at risk during both arthroscopic and open surgery. This chapter describes the relevant surgical anatomy of the nerves around the elbow; the relationship of these nerves to elbow arthroscopy portals and anatomical structures that may cause nerve compression is presented.