The role of the lateral part of the distal triceps and the anconeus in varus stability of the elbow: a biomechanical study

The role of the lateral part of the distal triceps as a stabilizer in the lateral collateral ligament–deficient elbow and whether its effect in improving the stability is independent of that of the anconeus are unclear. Seven cadaveric elbows were tested under gravity varus stress using a custom-made machine designed to simulate muscle loads while allowing passive flexion of the elbow. An injury model was created by sectioning the lateral collateral ligament and sparing the common extensor origin. The lateral part of the distal triceps tendon was loaded sequentially with 0 N, 10 N, 25 N, and 40 N. Each stage of the lateral part of the distal triceps loading was tested with the anconeus unloaded (inactive) or with a 25-N load applied (active). Articular contact pressures on the coronoid, the medial facet, and the lateral facet were collected and processed using Tekscan sensors and software. A significant decrease in the mean coronoid contact pressure was seen with sequential loading of the lateral part of the distal triceps (P