Efficacy and outcome of open reduction and internal fixation with mini-plate in ulnar coronoid process fractures

Aim: This study aimed to investigate clinical efficacy of open reduction and mini-plate fixation for the ulnar coronoid process fractures. Methods: 21 cases of ulnar coronoid process fractures treated with open reduction and mini-plate fixation were enrolled. Causes of injury included traffic injuries in 4 cases and fall on the ground in 17 cases. There were 10 cases of type I, 9 cases of type II and 2 cases of type III. Time from injury to operation ranged from 2 hours to 10 days (mean, 3.7 days). Fractures were fixed with mini-plate. Results: All cases were followed-up for 12-25 months (average 15.1 months). The bony union time was 8~14 weeks with an average of 10.6 weeks. No 1 oosening or breakage of the internal fixation was found. Mean flexion at the last follow-up was 124° (range, 90°-140°), mean extension loss was 18° (range, 0°-50°), mean pronation was 65° (range, 40°-85°) while mean supination was 63° (range, 35°-85°), showing significant difference when compared with that before operation (P < 0.05). According to MEPS elbow performance score, the results were excellent in 14 cases, good in 5 cases, fair in 1 case and poor in 1 case. According to Broberg and Morrey elbow performance score, the results were excellent in 11 cases, good in 7 cases, fair in 2 case and poor in 1 case. Conclusion: Open reduction and mini-plate fixation, provides sufficient stability for early functional exercise, is a effective treatment of ulnar coronoid process fractures.