# Arthroscopic treatment of septic arthritis of the elbow in a 5-year-old boy: A case report

## TL;DR

A 5-year-old boy with elbow septic arthritis was successfully treated with arthroscopy and antibiotics, showing quick recovery and full motion.

## Contribution

This case report demonstrates the effectiveness of arthroscopy using 4.5-mm instruments for treating pediatric elbow septic arthritis.

## Key findings

- The patient regained full range of motion within two weeks.
- Complete recovery was achieved six months post-treatment.
- Arthroscopy proved to be a minimally invasive and effective treatment option.

## Abstract

Septic arthritis of the elbow in children is rare but can lead to permanent joint damage if not treated promptly.

We report a case of a 5-year-old boy diagnosed with septic arthritis of the elbow, treated with arthroscopy using a 4.5-mm arthroscope, followed by antibiotic therapy. Pre- and post-operative pain and functional outcomes were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS).

The patient achieved full range of motion within two weeks and completes recovery at six months.

This case demonstrates that arthroscopy is an effective, minimally invasive option for managing pediatric elbow septic arthritis.

•Septic arthritis of the elbow in children is particularly uncommon but can lead to permanent joint damage if untreated.•Conventional 4.5 mm arthroscopic instruments used, not smaller hip/elbow scopes.•This case demonstrates arthroscopy as an effective, minimally invasive option for managing pediatric elbow septic arthritis.

Septic arthritis of the elbow in children is particularly uncommon but can lead to permanent joint damage if untreated.

Conventional 4.5 mm arthroscopic instruments used, not smaller hip/elbow scopes.

This case demonstrates arthroscopy as an effective, minimally invasive option for managing pediatric elbow septic arthritis.