Anatomy of the Elbow Joint

Overview

• The lecture covers the anatomy of the elbow joint, including bones, ligaments, and muscles.
• Aimed at both medical students and those wanting to understand elbow injuries.
• Includes a practice diagram for identifying parts of the elbow joint.

Bones of the Elbow Joint

1. Humerus
   • Bone of the upper arm.
   • Connects from scapula to the elbow joint.
2. Ulna
   • Runs from elbow to pinky side of the hand.
   • Features the olecranon which articulates with the humerus.
3. Radius
   • Runs from elbow to thumb side of the hand.
   • Articulates with the tubercle of the humerus.

Views

• Medial View: Inside part closer to the torso.
• Lateral View: Viewed from the outside.

Joint Types

• Synovial Joint: Allows for movement, featuring articular cartilage to reduce bone friction.
• Fibrous Joint: Limited movement, featuring ligaments like the interosseous membrane.

Ligaments of the Elbow Joint

Interosseous Membrane

• Connects the radius and ulna, providing stability.

Oblique Cord

• Connects ulna and radius at an angle, providing stability.

Joint Capsule

• Encloses the synovial fluid, adds joint stability.

Annular Ligament

• Connects from ulna, wraps around the radius, back to ulna.
• Holds the radius in place.

Quadrate Ligament

• Connects directly from radius to ulna.

Collateral Ligaments

1. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
   • Ulnar LCL (LUCL): Connects humerus to ulna on the lateral side.
   • Radial LCL (RCL): Connects humerus to radius, passes under annular ligament.
   • Includes annular ligament as part of structure.
2. Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
   • Posterior Bundle: Fan-shaped ligament connecting humerus to ulna.
   • Transverse Ligament: Cuts across the elbow joint.
   • Anterior Bundle (MUCL): Band-shaped, connects humerus to ulna.

Muscles Controlling Elbow Movement

1. Biceps Brachii
   • Origin: Scapula
   • Insertion: Radius
   • Function: Causes flexion of the elbow joint.
2. Triceps Brachii
   • Origin: Scapula and proximal humerus.
   • Insertion: Ulna
   • Function: Causes extension of the elbow joint.
   • An antagonist pair with biceps brachii.

Recap

• Review of bones, ligaments, and muscles involved in elbow anatomy.
• Practice with provided blank diagram to identify parts.

Conclusion

• Elbow joint is complex, comprising various synovial and fibrous structures.
• Importance of practice in mastering anatomical structures.
• Encouragement to follow for more anatomy content.