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Osborne-Cotterill Lesion a Forgotten Injury: Review Article and Case Report
Daniel Gaitán Vargas1, Santiago Woodcock2, Guido Fierro Porto2
1Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Fundación Santa Fé de Bogotá, Bogotá, Colombia.
Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow
|December 17, 2020
Summary
The Osborne-Cotterill lesion, an osteochondral fracture of the humeral capitellum, can cause elbow instability. Surgical repair of this often-overlooked lesion can restore joint function and stability.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Traumatology
Background:
- The Osborne-Cotterill lesion is an osteochondral fracture of the posterolateral margin of the humeral capitellum.
- It is frequently associated with radial head defects following elbow dislocations and can lead to chronic instability.
Observation:
- A 54-year-old physician experienced a posterior elbow dislocation fracture after a fall.
- Post-dislocation, the patient developed recurrent instability, diagnosed as an Osborne-Cotterill lesion.
Findings:
- Open reduction and internal fixation of the bony lesion were performed, along with reinsertion of the lateral ligamentous complex.
- The patient achieved full range of motion and returned to daily activities without limitation within three months post-surgery.
Implications:
- The Osborne-Cotterill lesion is a significant cause of elbow instability that can be easily overlooked.
- Surgical intervention, including open reduction and internal fixation, is crucial for successful treatment and restoration of elbow biomechanics.
