Anteromedial coronoid fractures: technical description of an extensile surgical approach and outcomes from a small series using this technique

Abstract

Background: Varus posteromedial rotatory instability is a difficult clinical problem to diagnose and treat. Fixation of the anteromedial coronoid fracture is often necessary to achieve elbow stability. We describe an extensile surgical approach to the anteromedial coronoid. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all patients at our institution who had anteromedial coronoid fracture fixed with this approach between 2012 and 2020. Results: Six patients were identified. They all achieved a stable elbow. Four of 6 developed heterotopic ossification and 2/6 required further surgery for this. Only 1 patient had a transient ulnar sensory loss. Conclusion: We describe an approach to the coronoid that allows great visualization of the joint and access to large coronoid fractures. The approach is extensile and does not require extensive dissection or work around the ulnar nerve. Access to fracture and for fixation can be improved by release of the common flexor pronator origin and the medial collateral ligament.

Keywords

• Varus posteromedial rotatory instability
• Coronoid fracture
• Elbow instability
• Surgical approach
• Trauma
• Elbow