A DISLOCATED left elbow will likely see Brisbane Lions defender Darcy Gardiner out for the season after he was sent to hospital during the eight-point win against Essendon at Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Gardiner, 21, was injured in the first quarter when he attempted to tackle Bombers forward Orazio Fantasia and went straight down to the rooms.

Coach Chris Fagan said the prognosis didn't look good.

"I don't think there's any fracture but (there's) certainly an elbow dislocation," Fagan said.

"I'm not sure whether it's popped back in or not but with an injury like that, it wouldn't surprise me if that's season done.

"They take a while to heal those, with all the ligaments around the joint. We'll know a bit more on Monday.

"It's a pity for him that he wasn't here to enjoy the win because he's such a hard worker for us."