Retrospective review of 35 patients with coronoid process fractures at Mayo Clinic (1970–1987), proposing a three-type radiographic classification based on fragment size and describing outcomes by fracture type using a 100-point elbow-performance index at mean 50-month follow-up.
When you see a coronoid fracture on elbow radiographs, classify it immediately by fragment size: Type I and II without instability can be mobilized within three weeks, but Type III (>50% of coronoid) demands scrutiny for associated dislocation and should prompt ORIF when feasible — leaving it unreduced risks recurrent subluxation and near-certain poor functional outcome.
Retrospective review of 35 patients with coronoid process fractures at Mayo Clinic (1970–1987), proposing a three-type radiographic classification based on fragment size and describing outcomes by fracture type using a 100-point elbow-performance index at mean 50-month follow-up.
When you see a coronoid fracture on elbow radiographs, classify it immediately by fragment size: Type I and II without instability can be mobilized within three weeks, but Type III (>50% of coronoid) demands scrutiny for associated dislocation and should prompt ORIF when feasible — leaving it unreduced risks recurrent subluxation and near-certain poor functional outcome.