[p. 207] the elbow-joint;
for example, the thicker bone (radius?) is sometime partially displaced
from the other, and the patient can neither perform extension nor
flexion properly. This accident becomes obvious upon examination with
the hand at the bend of the arm near the division of the vein that
runs up the muscle. In such a case it is not easy to reduce the parts
to their natural state, nor is it easy, in the separation of any two
bones united by symphysis, to restore them to their natural state,
for there will necessarily be a swelling at the seat of the diastasis.
The method of bandaging a joint has been already described in treating
of the application of bandages to the ankle.
Part 45
In certain cases the process of the ulna (olecranon?) behind the humerus
is broken; sometimes its cartilaginous part, which gives origin to
the posterior tendon of the arm, and sometimes its fore part, at the
base of the anterior coronoid process; and when this displacement
takes place, it is apt to be attended with malignant fever. The joint,
however, remains in place, for its whole base protrudes at that point.
But when the displacement takes place where its head overtops the
arm, the joint becomes looser if the bone be fairly broken across.
To speak in general terms, all cases of fractured bones are less dangerous
than those in which the bones are not broken, but the veins and important
nerves (tendons?) situated in these places are contused; for the risk
of death is more immediate in the latter class of cases than in the
former, if continual fever come on. But fractures of this nature seldom
occur.
Part 46
It sometimes happens that the head of the humerus is fractured at
its epiphysis; and this, although it may appear to be a much more
troublesome accident, is in fact a much milder one than the other
injuries at the joint.
Part 47
The treatment especially befitting each particular dislocation has
been described; and it has been laid down as a rule, that immediate
reduction is of the utmost advantage, owing to the rapid manner in
which inflammation of the tendons supervenes. For even when the luxated
parts are immediately reduced, the tendons usually become stiffened,
and for a considerable time prevent extension and flexion from being
performed
