The annular ligament recess is a synovial pocket between the annular ligament and the radial neck, inferior to the radial head. It accommodates synovial fluid and is part of the common elbow synovial cavity, allowing the radial head to rotate during forearm pronation and supination.
The annular ligament recess fills with fluid in elbow haemarthrosis and synovitis, displacing the lateral fat pad (positive lateral fat pad sign on X-ray). Loose bodies and synovial osteochondromatosis accumulate in this recess. Arthroscopic access via the proximal lateral or direct lateral portal allows assessment and debridement of the annular recess. Radial head fractures may produce bony fragments in this recess.
Osteochondral fragment or loose body in the annular ligament recess causing lateral elbow pain and limitation of forearm rotation, removed arthroscopically via the lateral portal.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
