CORONOID PROCESS RECONSTRUCTION USING A PART OF THE RADIAL HEAD IN TERRIBLE TRIAD OF THE ELBOW: A CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Gia Ánh Thỳ Lê, Viết Tân Nguyễn, Minh Khoa Lê, Thị Thanh Thảo Tôn

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Abstract

Objective: To present a case of coronoid process reconstruction using a fragment of the radial head in a type III terrible triad injury of the elbow (Regan-Morrey classification), and to review the literature on coronoid reconstruction techniques. Methods: A 35-year-old male sustained a terrible triad elbow injury after a traffic accident, with delayed treatment after 6 weeks. Surgery included coronoid reconstruction with an autologous radial head fragment fixed by screws, radial head fixation with a locking plate, and repair of both collateral ligaments. Results: At 9-month follow-up, the patient achieved good bone healing, satisfactory range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score of 85, and no major complications. Conclusion: Autologous radial head grafting for coronoid reconstruction provides favorable clinical outcomes, with advantages of local availability, preserved cartilage surface, and reliable bone healing. This technique may be considered a preferred option in type III coronoid fractures associated with terrible triad injuries.

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References

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