Our operative approach to the elbow joint.

Several surgical approaches to the elbow joint have been described. The disadvantage of all is an insufficient view of a single incision to the anterior and posterior as well as the ulnar aspect of the joint. They require therefore an additional incision or the resection of the radial head with a detachment of the radial collateral ligament. Our single incision allows for an extensive view to the anterior and posterior aspect of the elbow joint without resection of the radial head and the sacrificing of the radial collateral ligaments. It makes in most instances an additional ulnar incision unnecessary. This incision has mainly been tested for subtotal elbow synovectomy in rheumatoid arthritis, for the mobilization of posttraumatic stiff elbows and the removal of loose bodies as in chondromatosis.