Experimental study of elbow joint stability following ulna coronoid process fractures / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evalvate the influence of elbow joint stability following ulna coronoid process fractures. Methods Three cadaveric upper extremities were used. The height, width, thickness, diameter and opening angle of ulna coronoid process were measured in six arms, while the coronoid process fragments at the level of 2 mm, quarter, half, three quarter and whole height were resected consecutively, the changes of the range of the elbow joint movement were recorded. Another sixteen specimens were divided into two groups the anterior bundle of the ulnar collateral ligaments (UCL) in one group was unrepaired; While the other repaired, then the angle of cubitus valgus between two groups was compared. Results If the osteotomy bone was within quarter of ulna coronoid process, the elbow joint function was good. However, in cases of osteotomy on half of coronoid process, the elbow extension function was limited and the elbow became unstable. After reduction with internal fixation, the angle of cubitus valgus was greater in the second group, and the difference of elbow joint in flexion 0?, 30?, 60?, 90? and 120? had statistical significance(P