Aperture in coronoid-olecranon septum: A radiological evaluation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Anatomy

Background:

• The humerus bone features a narrow medullary canal and specific bowing or compression, potentially complicating retrograde nailing.
• Septal perforation in the humerus may increase the risk of iatrogenic fractures during surgical insertion.
• Understanding coronoid-olecranon perforation is vital for effective preoperative planning in humeral nailing procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of coronoid-olecranon septum perforation in living individuals.
• To utilize radiographic methods for assessing septal perforation in a contemporary population.

Main Methods:

• Direct radiograms and computed tomography (CT) scans of the elbow were analyzed.
• The study included 709 volunteers, comprising 367 males and 342 females.

Main Results:

• The incidence of coronoid-olecranon septal perforation was found to be 8.6%.
• Bilateral occurrence of the perforation was statistically more significant.
• The highest incidence of perforation was observed in individuals within their second decade of life.

Conclusions:

• The study indicates a predisposition for septal perforation in females and a left-sided asymmetry.
• The observed bilateral occurrence of septal perforation may present unique considerations for clinicians.