Classification and Treatment of Coronoid Process Fractures

Abstract

Fractures of the coronoid process are rare as isolated injuries and usually are associated with significant, sometimes devastating trauma to the elbow. The classification system based on the degree of involvement has proven helpful to estimate prognosis and to help guide treatment. Severe fractures are generally associated with instability and portend a poor prognosis. Treatment by distraction, external fixation, and early motion has been encouraging.

Mid- to long-term results after bipolar radial head arthroplasty

“…The other irreconstructible radial head fractures occurred within 3 terrible triade injuries, 6 within Monteggia like lesions (4 IIa and 2 IId, according to the Bado/Jupiter classification), and 1 Essex-Lopresti lesion. According to the Regan and Morrey classification, 30 there were 4 type I, 1 type II, and 4 type III fractures. At the ipsilateral arm, 3 distal radius fractures and 1 proximal humerus fracture were found.…”

Treatment of persistent instability after posterior fracture-dislocation of the elbow: restoring stability and mobility by internal fixation and hinged external fixation

“…Overall, these injuries have been associated with a high risk of permanent disability and secondary arthritis. 3,27,28 An improved knowledge of the primary and secondary constraints of the elbow, from biomechanical cadaveric studies, has led to a better understanding of the rationale for surgical reconstruction of the stabilizing structures in open operative procedures, and new treatment modalities have been introduced. 14, 16,17,24,26,29 The lateral collateral ligament complex is the first structure damaged in fracture-dislocations of the elbow, and in some patients, this damage may cause persistent posterolateral instability.…”

Use of osteochondral bone graft in coronoid fractures

“…Theoretically, coronoid fractures result from an axial load on the hand when the elbow is between 0°and 35°of flexion. 1 The classification of Regan and Morrey 21,23 has been used to characterize these fractures and to emphasize the necessity to distinguish clinically between a stable and unstable elbow. Treatment options depend on the type of fracture, stability, and associated lesions of the elbow.…”