Campbell test: collateral ligaments after elbow luxation
3-year-old Border Collie hit by a car 12 hours ago, with a traumatic luxation of the left elbow. Under general anaesthesia it is reduced closed and the joint appears congruent.
How do you assess the integrity of the collateral ligaments?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. There is no need: if the luxation has been reduced, the collaterals are intact
An elbow luxation almost always damages at least one collateral ligament. If you do not assess it, you may leave instability that leads to reluxation or early osteoarthritis.
B. With elbow hyperextension: if it hurts, the collateral is ruptured
Pain on hyperextension is non-specific and does not measure stability, and the patient is anaesthetised. What you are looking for is an abnormal increase in rotation.
C. With elbow and carpus flexed at 90°, rotating the paw inwards and outwards and comparing with the other side
Correct. This is the Campbell test. Excessive internal rotation (pronation) suggests lateral collateral damage, and excessive external rotation (supination), medial collateral damage.
D. With a craniocaudal drawer of the elbow, as in the stifle
The elbow has no equivalent drawer test; the collaterals mainly restrict rotation and varus-valgus, which is what must be examined.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Most traumatic elbow luxations are lateral, because the large medial humeral epicondyle hinders medial displacement. After reduction, assess the collaterals with the Campbell test and radiographs: if there is instability or avulsion, surgical repair is usually indicated.
Test yourself with 10 random questions
Musculoskeletal system · 100 questions, a different test every time
Related questions
Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.