Which ligament resists lateral dislocation at the elbow?

Which ligament resists lateral dislocation at the elbow?

• A. Annular ligament
• B. Ulnar collateral ligament
• C. Radial collateral ligament
• D. Interosseous membrane

Answer: (C)

Lateral stability of the elbow is provided mainly by the radial collateral ligament complex. This ligament runs from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the radius and works to resist varus (lateral) opening of the joint. When a lateral dislocation occurs, the need to prevent that lateral separation points to this ligament as the key stabilizer. The annular ligament helps keep the radial head in contact with the ulna, mainly stabilizing the radioulnar articulation rather than preventing a full elbow dislocation to the side. The interosseous membrane adds longitudinal forearm stability, while the ulnar collateral ligament resists valgus stress on the medial side, not lateral dislocation.

Lateral stability of the elbow is provided mainly by the radial collateral ligament complex. This ligament runs from the lateral epicondyle of the humerus to the radius and works to resist varus (lateral) opening of the joint. When a lateral dislocation occurs, the need to prevent that lateral separation points to this ligament as the key stabilizer. The annular ligament helps keep the radial head in contact with the ulna, mainly stabilizing the radioulnar articulation rather than preventing a full elbow dislocation to the side. The interosseous membrane adds longitudinal forearm stability, while the ulnar collateral ligament resists valgus stress on the medial side, not lateral dislocation.