Operative Treatment of Type III Coronoid Process Fractures

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To review the clinical results of eight cases of typeIII coronoid process fractures which were treated operatively. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight patients with coronoid type III fracture were reviewed retrospectively. All were men with an average age of 33. There were three isolated fractures, two elbow dislocations, two radial head and neck fractures, and one medial collateral ligament rupture. Open reduction and internal fixation through anterior approach with canulated screws was used. The patients were followed up for a mean of 31 months (24 to 60). RESULTS: Average active elbow joint motion at the most recent follow up was 105degrees. The average Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 76.9 (50 to 95). There was one excellent result, four good, two fair, and one poor. CONCLUSION: Early open reduction and stable internal fixation provided a reliable method for the treatment of type III coronoid process fractures. Any associated ligament injuries to the elbow and fracture comminution were considered as important prognostic factors.