This is the diagnosis | Torn capsule at the elbow – How it is treated

This is the diagnosis

In many cases, the diagnosis does not require complex and instrumental examinations. An enquiry about the course of the accident and a physical examination are often sufficient to make the diagnosis. During the physical examination, the affected side should be compared with the opposite side, especially with regard to swelling, redness and mobility.

In order to reliably differentiate capsule strains from capsule tears or other injuries to the joint, an X-ray or MRI image can be made. In the X-ray examination, bony involvement can be optimally identified. The MRI image, on the other hand, shows the soft tissue defects of the muscles, the capsule and the accumulation of fluid in the joint.

With magnetic resonance imaging, soft tissue in particular can be detected with high resolution. Especially in the case of a capsule rupture, this examination can identify defects of the connective tissue, effusions on and in the joint, as well as injuries of the ligaments and muscles. The MRI examination takes about 20-40 minutes and costs more than other radiological procedures. The advantage, however, is that special tissues can be displayed with much higher resolution and the patient is not exposed to any radiation during the examination.

All articles in this series:

  1. Torn capsule at the elbow – How it is treated
  2. When does one need surgery?
  3. What can be the late effects?
  4. This is the diagnosis