Coronoid fractures and traumatic elbow instability.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Traumatology
• Elbow Biomechanics

Background:

• The coronoid process is critical for maintaining concentric elbow alignment.
• Malalignment of the coronoid process can lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis.
• Effective treatment aims to preserve joint alignment during collateral ligament and fracture healing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To categorize coronoid process fractures based on injury patterns.
• To correlate fracture morphology with associated ligamentous injuries and treatment strategies.
• To guide surgical and non-operative management for optimal elbow function.

Main Methods:

• Classification of coronoid fractures into tip, anteromedial facet, and base types.
• Correlation of fracture patterns with specific ligamentous injuries (e.g., terrible triad).
• Review of surgical fixation techniques (suture, screw, buttress plating) and non-operative criteria.

Main Results:

• Coronoid tip fractures are linked to terrible triad injuries, managed with fixation and radial head repair.
• Anteromedial facet fractures typically require medial buttress plating.
• Large base fractures often accompany olecranon injuries and are addressed with screw fixation.

Conclusions:

• Fracture patterns of the coronoid process dictate specific treatment approaches.
• Timely and accurate fixation or non-operative management promotes healing and prevents long-term complications.
• Early rehabilitation can commence upon achieving stable fixation and concentric joint reduction.