Coronoid Fracture Reconstruction with Ipsilateral Olecranon Osteoarticular Autograft in the Acute Setting

Abstract

Case: An 18-year-old male polytrauma patient sustained a high-energy posterior fracture dislocation of his left elbow associated with a comminuted and irreparable O'Driscoll type 2 subtype 3 anteromedial facet coronoid fracture. He underwent early coronoid reconstruction using ipsilateral olecranon osteoarticular autograft with incorporation of the sublime tubercle attachment of the medial collateral ligament and repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament. A 3-year follow-up revealed a functional, painless, congruent, and stable elbow. Conclusion: Early reconstruction of a highly comminuted coronoid fracture may be a useful salvage option for the polytrauma patient, thereby avoiding complications associated with late reconstruction of posttraumatic elbow instability.