Coronoid view: A New Radiograph for the Evaluation of the Coronoid Fractures

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: It is very important to evaluate and fix coronoid process fractures because they are a critical element for a stable, effective elbow function. The lateral view of the elbow joint is used for a radiographic evaluation of the coronoid but an understanding of the fracture pattern is often difficult because of overlap of the radial head and obliquity of the fracture line. We developed the coronoid view, which is a new radiograph for an evaluation of the coronoid process fracture, and discuss its advantages for a postoperative follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The coronoid view was designed for an evaluation of the anteromedial fragment of the coronoid process. After the patient sat on his side, the shoulder was abducted 45degrees and the elbow was flexed 90degrees The X-ray beam was shot perpendicular to the table. Since shoulder was abducted 45degrees the fracture line of the coronoid process can be parallel to the X-ray beam, and the radial head can be cleared. CONCLUSION: The coronoid view can be a good alternative radiograph for an evaluation of a coronoid process fracture because the beam is parallel to the fracture line. The coronoid view can be particularly useful in postoperative patient follow-up where computed tomography is impractical due to metal implants and cost.