Elbow injuries in the throwing athlete: Diagnosis and arthroscopic treatment

The elbow is a frequent site of pathology in sports injuries, especially in the throwing athlete. This is because of thesignificant stresses that are produced at the elbow joint by the throwing activity. Many of these injuries occur insidiously over time from accumulated microtrauma caused by repetitive overuse and can be quite debilitating if not properly diagnosed. Recent advances in knowledge of elbow anatomy, function, and biomechanics have greatly increased our awareness of the diagnosis and treatment of sports-related elbow injuries. Elbow arthroscopy has been invaluable in the diagnosis and treatment of intra-articular pathology frequently observed in the elbow. In addition, treatment of elbow throwing injuries has been greatly facilitated by allowing an accelerated rehabilitation and return to competition over open procedures. Meticulous arthroscopic technique and knowledge of regional elbow anatomy is essential to avoid neurovascular complications and articular damage. When performed by an experienced arthroscopist, the procedure carries minimal morbidity and allows a rapid return to competition.