From the Research
The lateral elbow bones visible in a lateral view include the distal humerus, proximal radius, and proximal ulna, with the most recent and detailed anatomical study provided by 1. The distal humerus features the lateral epicondyle, which serves as an attachment point for wrist extensor muscles, and the capitellum, which articulates with the radial head. The proximal radius consists of the radial head, neck, and tuberosity, with the head forming part of both the elbow and proximal radioulnar joints. The proximal ulna includes the olecranon process, which forms the bony prominence of the elbow, and the coronoid process, which helps stabilize the joint. Together, these bones form the humeroulnar joint (between humerus and ulna) and the humeroradial joint (between humerus and radius), allowing for flexion and extension movements. The radioulnar joint between the radius and ulna enables pronation and supination of the forearm. Understanding these anatomical relationships is important for evaluating elbow injuries, fractures, and conditions like tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, as highlighted in studies such as 2, 3, 4, and 5. Key aspects of the lateral elbow anatomy, including the lateral ulnar collateral ligament, have been detailed in recent studies like 1, providing valuable insights for clinical applications. The lateral elbow bones and their associated joints and ligaments work in concert to provide a wide range of motion and stability to the elbow, as discussed in the context of surgical approaches and anatomical studies 2, 3. In clinical practice, a thorough understanding of this anatomy is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of various elbow conditions, as emphasized by the importance of imaging modalities like MRI in evaluating ligament injuries and other pathologies 5. Given the complexity and the importance of precise anatomical knowledge for both surgical interventions and the management of elbow injuries, the most accurate and up-to-date description of the lateral elbow bones and their relationships should be prioritized, as provided by the latest studies such as 1.