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Fracture Types

Elbow fracture patterns (supracondylar, condylar, olecranon, coronoid) – age-related incidence & key anatomical considerations.

Overview

Fracture management relies heavily on classification systems to predict prognosis and guide surgical strategy. The Pipkin classification for femoral head fractures distinguishes between types 1 and 2, which generally achieve better outcomes than types 3 and 4 [1]. Similarly, the Dubberley classification aids in describing coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus and selecting the appropriate surgical approach [10]. For coronoid process fractures of the ulna, a proposed radiographic classification demonstrates significant prognostic value, with 91% of Type-I fractures achieving satisfactory results compared to only 20% of Type-III fractures [2].

Outcomes for specific fracture patterns vary based on articular integrity and patient factors. Coronal plane articular shear fractures of the distal humerus yield better results and lower complication rates when there is less fragmentation of the articular surface or no posterior comminution [16]. In contrast, unsatisfactory radiographic findings do not correlate with functional impairment in patients with coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus treated with internal fixation [10]. Finger fracture results vary according to fracture type, surgeon experience, and patient compliance [20], while paediatric hand fractures carry a 6% complication rate warranting analysis of site and configuration [5].

Treatment selection often depends on displacement and deformity. Conservative treatment may be considered for nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 anteromedial coronoid facet fractures under strict preconditions, as these show satisfactory functional outcomes when treated nonoperatively [4]. There is no evidence that any specific form or duration of immobilization is superior for small finger metacarpal neck fractures with limited deformity [25], whereas insufficient data exist to determine the best treatment for those with substantial angulation [25]. In the context of femoral lengthening, fractures occurred in 12% of cases even when prophylactic titanium elastic nailing was used, though this prophylaxis reduces the rate of secondary interventions after regenerate fractures [6].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Osseous Stability and Fracture Patterns

The trochlea plays a critical role in elbow stability, whereas the capitellum alone does not contribute to stability [39]. In pediatric medial epicondyle injuries, identifying specific fracture patterns is a key first step in understanding the variability of clinical outcomes across different management strategies [30]. For three-part humeral head fractures, the studied construct permits micromovements that do not result in humeral head rotation or translation [34]. In adolescent athletes with significant trauma, elbow laxity, instability, or substantial fragment displacement, surgical management can be successful [55].

Kinematics and Lengthening

Elbow kinematics deviate increasingly from those of the native joint with a 2 mm to a 4 mm lengthening of the radius [29]. In pediatric supracondylar fractures (Gartland type III), age over ten years is a poor prognostic factor for recovery of the range of elbow movement [51].

Ligamentous and Soft Tissue Pathology

Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, with the most common injury pattern beginning with a medial-sided ligamentous disruption [56]. In Little Leaguers, similar rates of medial elbow changes imply that roentgenological changes of the medial epicondyle could be an adaptive yet physiological reaction to excessive valgus stress of throwing [50].

Surgical Implications for Motion and Fixation

Fixation of olecranon fractures must be secure enough to permit early motion to avoid significant stiffness of the elbow joint [47]. Early functional mobilization allows for satisfactory restoration of elbow function in the surgical treatment of coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus with an intact lateral epicondyle [41]. Short operating times and early mobilization are advantages of megaprosthetic replacement in complex distal humerus fractures in elderly patients [23]. A novel combined anteromedial and anterolateral anatomical locking double-plate demonstrated less stress, less displacement, and greater stiffness compared with other internal fixation methods for intra-articular distal humerus fractures [58]. Each of the treatment modalities studied for distal humerus fractures in older adults resulted in a reasonable level of elbow function [60].

Diagnostic Modalities and Reconstruction

Point-of-care ultrasound may be a useful safe alternative to optimize the evaluation and diagnosis of elbow trauma in the pediatric emergency department [48]. An arthroscopic procedure using absorbable pins for fragment fixation of osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum, performed with the elbow in maximum flexed position using posterolateral and lateral portals, is effective [61]. All cases of bone transport combined with internal fixation in post-traumatic distal humerus defects and nonunions achieved bone healing without docking site nonunion [67]. Patients with bone transport combined with internal fixation for post-traumatic distal humerus defects and nonunions demonstrated good recovery of elbow joint function postoperatively with no significant limitations in flexion and extension [67].

Outcomes and Unknowns

The Discovery Elbow System resulted in improved function, reduced pain, and high patient satisfaction [44]. The long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries remains unknown [49].

Classification

Pipkin: This system classifies femoral head fractures and demonstrates prognostic utility, with patients having Types 1 and 2 fractures generally achieving better outcomes than those with Types 3 and 4 fractures [1].

Mason: The Mason classification is the most reliable system for proximal radius fractures [42].

Dubberley: The Dubberley classification is useful for describing coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus and selecting the surgical approach [10]. Unsatisfactory radiographic findings do not correlate with functional impairment in patients with coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus treated with internal fixation according to Dubberley's classification [10].

Neer: The Neer classification system should continue to be used for communication regarding proximal humeral fractures [45]. Clinicians must recognize that categorizing proximal humeral fractures is difficult and that reported treatment results may be inaccurate due to classification unreliability [45].

Gustilo–Anderson: The Gustilo open fracture classification was published in two separate articles, with type III subtypes introduced in a 1984 publication by Gustilo, Mendoza, and Williams rather than the 1976 article by Gustilo and Anderson [37]. Some authors have used the Gustilo classification to create alternative classifications, but these have not gained traction [35]. Other contemporaneous literature has modified the Gustilo-IIIB subtypes to better stratify functional and reconstructive outcomes following vascular injury [35].

Coronoid Process: A radiographic classification of coronoid process fractures of the ulna has prognostic value, with 91% of Type-I fractures achieving satisfactory results compared to 20% of Type-III fractures [2].

Olecranon Stress Fractures: A classification system for olecranon stress fractures in baseball players is based on the origin and direction of the fracture plane, which is strongly influenced by the age at symptom onset [3]. A classification system for olecranon stress fractures was intended to introduce a system for different types, with operative indications for each type identified as an important next step for future study [33].

Pediatric Capitellar: A classification of pediatric capitellar fractures has been proposed to guide treatment and prognosis [7].

Acetabulum: Among the three-column classification of acetabular fractures, quadrilateral plate fractures are commonly observed in type B and C [31].

Lateral Clavicle: A new simple classification system for lateral clavicle fractures and its associated treatment algorithms showed substantial inter- and intraobserver reliability [40].

Monteggia-like Lesions: Correct identification, classification, and understanding of Monteggia-like lesions of the elbow using CT scans followed by appropriate surgical treatment addressing all injury components can achieve good to excellent mid-term results [13].

Other Considerations: Most randomized controlled trials studying proximal humerus fractures rely on fracture pattern classification systems to describe inclusion and exclusion criteria, but these systems fail to objectively delineate which fractures should be included [21].

Clinical Presentation

Prognostic outcomes vary significantly by fracture classification. Patients with Pipkin Types 1 and 2 femoral head fractures generally have better outcomes than those with Types 3 and 4 fractures [1]. In the proposed radiographic classification for coronoid process of the ulna fractures, 91% of Type-I fractures achieved satisfactory results compared to 20% of Type-III fractures [2]. Nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 anteromedial coronoid facet fractures show satisfactory functional outcomes when treated nonoperatively [4]. Unsatisfactory radiographic findings do not correlate with functional impairment in patients with coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus treated with internal fixation [10].

Classification Systems: The Dubberley classification is useful for describing coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus and selecting the surgical approach [10]. A classification of pediatric capitellar fractures is proposed to guide treatment and prognosis [7]. A classification system for olecranon stress fractures in baseball players is based on the origin and direction of the fracture plane, which is strongly influenced by the age at symptom onset [3]. Detailed information about various types of finger fractures is available for use as a point of reference in clinical work and for future studies [38].

Demographics and Etiology: Intertrochanteric hip fractures in elderly patients are common injuries with increasing incidence due to aging populations [32]. The local incidence of bisphosphonate-associated atypical femoral fractures is in line with published figures [36]. Fracture etiology in children has changed over time [19]. The age range over which fractures occur in non-ossifying fibroma is wide [9]. Patients older than 65 years with coronal fractures of the capitellum have no substantial risk of complex fracture patterns [11].

Complications and Associated Injuries: In paediatric hand fractures, 6% of fractures had associated complications [5]. Fractures occurred in 12% of cases following femoral lengthening procedures [6]. Stage B non-ossifying fibroma lesions are at an increased risk of fracture [9]. Patients older than 65 years with coronal fractures of the capitellum have a large number of concomitant injuries [11]. Nonunion of a first rib fracture can cause thoracic outlet syndrome [14].

Diagnostic Imaging and Management: With correct identification, classification, and understanding using CT scans followed by appropriate surgical treatment, good to excellent mid-term results can be achieved for Monteggia-like lesions of the elbow [13]. Stress fractures of the radius diaphysis in skeletally immature wrestlers are often subtle or undetectable on plain radiographs [17]. Arthroscopic reduction and percutaneous cannulated screw fixation is a useful alternative technique for managing capitellar fractures of the humerus [8]. Routine primary nonoperative management of isolated stable radial head fractures provides a satisfactory outcome for the majority of patients [18]. Few patients with isolated stable radial head fractures require further intervention for persisting complaints [18]. First rib fractures should be followed-up carefully [14]. Medical management and identification of bisphosphonate-associated atypical femoral fractures may be suboptimal [36]. The total count of nearly every evaluated upper extremity fracture increased over the past 15 years in Germany [12].

Investigations

Plain radiography: The Regan-Morrey classification provides a simple description of coronoid fragment size based on a single lateral radiograph, though its reliability is only fair to moderate and its simplicity hinders full characterization of complex injury patterns [71]. Radiographic classification of coronoid process fractures of the ulna has prognostic value, with 91% of Type-I fractures achieving satisfactory results compared to 20% of Type-III fractures [2]. Plain radiographs are often insufficient for stress fractures of the radius diaphysis in skeletally immature wrestlers, which are frequently subtle or undetectable, requiring a high index of suspicion [17]. Loose bodies in osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum are often missed on standard X-rays [69]. Evaluation with radiographic examination is indicated for acute transverse patellar fractures associated with weightlifting [79].

MRI: There is unanimous agreement regarding the use of MRI for nondisplaced Jones fractures in elite athletes [26]. Magnetic resonance imaging can clearly delineate acute ruptures of the patellar ligament and avulsion fractures of the patella, aiding in diagnosis when radiographs are inconclusive due to small bone fragments [68]. MRI is superior to radiograph in evaluating and diagnosing children's humeral lateral condyle fractures and their stability [75].

CT: There is unanimous agreement regarding the use of CT for comminuted or displaced Jones fractures in elite athletes [26]. CT is recommended for improved characterization of any fracture with a coronoid component [70]. CT scans are more accurate than other modalities to identify the injury pattern in elbow fracture dislocations and have higher intra and inter observer reproducibility for identifying these patterns [74]. Correct identification, classification, and understanding of Monteggia-like lesions of the elbow using CT scans followed by appropriate surgical treatment addressing all injury components can achieve good to excellent mid-term results [13].

Bone scan: Evaluation with bone scan is indicated for acute transverse patellar fractures associated with weightlifting [79].

Other Considerations: The Pipkin Classification of femoral head fractures is prognostically useful, with patients having Types 1 and 2 fractures generally achieving better outcomes than those with Types 3 and 4 fractures [1]. A classification system for olecranon stress fractures in baseball players is based on the origin and direction of the fracture plane, which is strongly influenced by the age at symptom onset [3]. Conservative treatment may be considered for nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 anteromedial coronoid facet fractures, as these show satisfactory functional outcomes when treated nonoperatively [4]. A classification of pediatric capitellar fractures is proposed to guide treatment and prognosis [7]. Stage B non-ossifying fibroma lesions are at an increased risk of fracture [9]. Advances in diagnostic imaging and classifications for tibial spine fractures will likely reduce the occurrence of complications in paediatric and adolescent patients and athletes [77]. Type 1A and 2A distal humeral coronal plane fractures typically have an excellent outcome [78]. There is unanimous agreement regarding indications for minimally invasive techniques for Jones fractures in elite athletes [26]. There is unanimous agreement regarding the use of adjunctive bone grafting for Jones fractures in elite athletes [26].

Treatment

Non-Operative

Conservative management is appropriate for specific fracture subsets, including nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 anteromedial coronoid facet fractures, which demonstrate satisfactory functional outcomes nonoperatively [4]. Routine primary nonoperative management of isolated stable radial head fractures yields satisfactory outcomes for the majority of patients with few requiring further intervention [18]. Undisplaced or minimally displaced radial head fractures without a rotational block to motion can be treated nonoperatively with excellent results expected [54]. Nonoperative management is also acceptable for supracondylar process fractures of the humerus in the absence of neurovascular compromise [57]. The majority of metacarpal fractures are managed nonoperatively [59], as are isolated undisplaced pediatric olecranon fractures, which show good results with this approach [53]. Non-surgical treatment remains predominant across all ages for olecranon fractures, though its use decreases markedly in older patients [43]. A patient treated nonoperatively despite complete non-union of a radial neck fracture achieved a good functional outcome at 16 months with no pain, avascular necrosis, or head collapse [62]. There is no evidence that any specific form or duration of immobilization is superior for small finger metacarpal neck fractures with limited deformity [25].

Operative

Indications: Surgical intervention is indicated for Pipkin Types 3 and 4 femoral head fractures, which have worse outcomes than Types 1 and 2 [1]. Operative treatment is supported for pediatric olecranon fractures displaced ≥4 mm [53]. Surgery is considered for coronal plane articular shear fractures of the distal humerus with less fragmentation and no posterior comminution to avoid poor outcomes associated with non-union [15, 16]. Prophylactic titanium elastic nailing (TEN) is utilized to reduce secondary interventions in femoral lengthening cases where fractures occur in 12% of cases [6]. Megaprosthetic replacement is an option for complex distal humerus fractures in elderly patients to facilitate short operating times and early mobilization [23].

Surgical Approach / Technique: Arthroscopic reduction and percutaneous cannulated screw fixation serves as a useful alternative for managing capitellar fractures of the humerus [8]. Systematic reviews of open reduction for pediatric lateral condyle fractures demonstrate similar outcomes regarding union and infection rates across all fixation techniques [52]. Operative techniques and implants for osteosynthesis of finger fractures continue to evolve, with results varying according to fracture type, surgeon experience, and patient compliance [20].

Implant Selection: For surgically managed olecranon fractures, the use of plate fixation has increased while tension-band wiring has decreased in popularity [43]. A novel patellar fracture fixation method offers promise for improved fracture stability and reduced complications [24].

Other Considerations: Classification systems guide treatment and prognosis for pediatric capitellar fractures [7] and coronoid process fractures of the ulna, where 91% of Type-I fractures achieved satisfactory results compared to 20% of Type-III fractures [2]. There are insufficient data to determine the best treatment for small finger metacarpal neck fractures with substantial angulation [25]. It is prudent to limit the use of bisphosphonates for the treatment of stress fractures in athletes until further results are available [66].

Complications

Infection (PJI): Complication rates, including deep infection and nonunion, are high after transolecranon distal humerus fractures [22].

Aseptic loosening: No specific evidence regarding aseptic loosening was identified in the provided data.

Instability: No specific evidence regarding instability was identified in the provided data.

Periprosthetic fracture: Fractures occurred in 12% of cases following femoral lengthening procedures [6]. The rate of secondary interventions was markedly reduced with prophylactic titanium elastic nailing following femoral lengthening [6].

Thromboembolism: No specific evidence regarding thromboembolism was identified in the provided data.

Patellar / Extensor-mechanism: A novel patellar fracture fixation method offers promise for improved fracture stability [24]. This method also offers promise for reduced complications [24].

Stiffness / Arthrofibrosis: Transolecranon distal humerus fractures frequently pose long-term functional limitations to the patient [22].

Nerve palsy: Nonunion of a first rib fracture can cause thoracic outlet syndrome [14].

Wound complications: No specific evidence regarding wound complications was identified in the provided data.

Polyethylene wear: No specific evidence regarding polyethylene wear was identified in the provided data.

Other Considerations: Patients with Pipkin Types 1 and 2 femoral head fractures generally have better outcomes than those with Types 3 and 4 fractures [1]. The origin and direction of the fracture plane in olecranon stress fractures are strongly influenced by the age at symptom onset [3]. Six percent of paediatric hand fractures are associated with complications [5]. Stage B non-ossifying fibroma lesions are at an increased risk of fracture, occurring across a wide age range [9]. Patients older than 65 years undergoing open reduction and internal fixation of coronal capitellum fractures have a large number of concomitant injuries [11]. The total count of nearly every evaluated upper extremity fracture increased over the past 15 years in Germany [12]. Low body mass index is a risk factor for non-union of distal humeral fractures in the elderly, as is high body mass index [15]. Lower numbers of screws in the articular segment are a risk factor for non-union of distal humeral fractures in the elderly [15]. Non-union of distal humeral fractures is associated with poor clinical outcomes [15]. Fractures with less fragmentation of the articular surface report better results and lower complication rates, as do fractures without posterior comminution [16]. Patients aged over 65 years who experienced a fragility fracture at any site are at imminent risk of experiencing a subsequent fracture within the next 2 years [27]. People with a history of wrist fracture can potentially benefit from early-stage hypertension control [28].

Recovery

Light activity (weeks): Evidence does not specify a universal week range for light activity across all fracture types; however, specific protocols indicate that conservative treatment for nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 anteromedial coronoid facet fractures yields satisfactory functional outcomes nonoperatively [4]. For Jones fractures in elite athletes, consensus supports the use of MRI for nondisplaced cases and CT for comminuted or displaced cases to guide management, though specific timelines for light activity are not defined in the provided evidence [26].

Full activity (months): The "Joy Stick" method for irreducible flexion-type supracondylar fractures in older children provides substantial stability and results in excellent long-term recovery of joint function [46]. In contrast, patients with transolecranon distal humerus fractures face frequent long-term functional limitations, and complication rates including deep infection and nonunion are high [22]. Non-union of distal humeral fractures is specifically associated with poor clinical outcomes [15].

Complete recovery / outcome plateau (months): Pipkin Types 1 and 2 femoral head fractures generally demonstrate better outcomes than Types 3 and 4 [1]. Type-I coronoid process fractures of the ulna achieve satisfactory results in 91% of cases, compared to only 20% for Type-III fractures [2]. Patients aged over 65 years with fragility fractures at any site are at imminent risk of a subsequent fracture within the next 2 years [27]. Delayed bone union of humeral medial epicondylar fragmentation in young baseball players is associated with resuming throwing at maximum strength before union occurs [76].

Rehabilitation protocol: No specific rehabilitation protocols, immobilisation durations, or weight-bearing progressions are detailed in the provided evidence for the majority of fracture types listed. The consensus process reached unanimous agreement on indications for minimally invasive techniques and the use of adjunctive bone grafting for Jones fractures in elite athletes [26]. For metacarpal fractures, no significant long-term differences were noted in functional outcomes between pin and plate fixation [64].

Functional milestones: Functional outcomes vary significantly by fracture classification; 91% of Type-I coronoid process fractures achieve satisfactory results versus 20% for Type-III [2]. Stage B non-ossifying fibroma lesions are at an increased risk of fracture [9]. Patients older than 65 years with coronal fractures of the capitellum present with a large number of concomitant injuries [11]. First rib fractures causing thoracic outlet syndrome require careful follow-up [14].

Other Considerations: Fractures occurred in 12% of cases following prophylactic titanium elastic nailing after femoral lengthening, with a marked reduction in the rate of secondary interventions [6]. The total count of nearly every evaluated upper extremity fracture increased over the past 15 years in Germany [12]. People with a history of wrist fracture can potentially benefit from early-stage hypertension control [28].

Key Evidence

  • [L4] However, it is prognostically useful, as patients with Types 1 and 2 fractures generally have better outcomes than those with Types 3 and 4 fractures. (10.1007/s11999.0000000000000045)
  • [L4] The proposed radiographic classification had prognostic value, with 91% of Type-I fractures achieving satisfactory results compared to 20% of Type-III fractures. (10.2106/00004623-198971090-00011)
  • [L4] This study presents a new classification system for the different types of OSFs based on the origin and direction of the fracture plane, which is strongly influenced by the age at symptom onset. (10.1177/0363546514528099)
  • [L4] Conservative treatment may be considered under strict preconditions, especially for nondisplaced subtype 1 and 2 fractures, as these fractures show satisfactory functional outcomes when treated nonoperatively. (10.1016/j.jse.2020.09.008)
  • [Commentary] The author suggests that the 6% of fractures with associated complications merit further analysis and that more specific detail on fracture site, configuration, and initial treatment would be welcome. (10.1177/1753193413493725)
  • [L3] Fractures occurred in 12% of cases, and the rate of secondary interventions was markedly reduced. (10.1186/1471-2474-14-302)
  • [L4] A classification of pediatric capitellar fractures is proposed, guiding treatment and prognosis. (10.2106/jbjs.16.01393)
  • [Case_report] This technique might be a useful alternative for the management of this type of fracture. (10.1016/j.jse.2008.07.007)
  • [L4] Stage B lesions were found to be at an increased risk of fracture, and the age range over which fractures occur was wide. (10.1186/s12891-016-1004-0)
  • [L4] The study confirms the utility of the Dubberley classification in describing the fracture and selecting the surgical approach. (10.1016/j.jse.2025.05.033)
  • [L4] Patients older than 65 years have no substantial risk of complex fracture patterns, but they have a large number of concomitant injuries. (10.1016/j.jse.2015.12.004)
  • [L4] Total count of nearly every evaluated fracture increased. (10.1186/s13018-020-1580-4)
  • [L3] With correct identification, classification, and understanding using CT scans followed by appropriate surgical treatment that addresses all components of the injury, good to excellent mid-term results can be achieved. (10.1302/0301-620x.100b2.bjj-2017-0398.r2)
  • [Case_report] Therefore, this type of fracture should be followed-up carefully. (10.1016/j.jse.2010.03.011)
  • [L3] Non-union is associated with poor clinical outcomes. (10.1177/17585732221131923)
  • [L5] Better results and lower complication rates have been reported for fractures with less fragmentation of the articular surface and those without posterior comminution. (10.5435/jaaos-d-21-00291)
  • [L4] A high index of suspicion is required to diagnose these fractures because they are often subtle or undetectable on plain radiographs. (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.01.040)
  • [L4] Routine primary nonoperative management of these fractures provides a satisfactory outcome for the majority of patients, with few patients requiring further intervention for persisting complaints. (10.2106/jbjs.m.01354)
  • [L3] Also, fracture etiology has changed. (10.1186/s13018-019-1248-0)
  • [L5] Fractures of the fingers are better understood, indications for surgical treatment are more clearly defined, and operative techniques and implants for osteosynthesis are continuing to evolve and improve, though results vary according to fracture type, surgeon experience, and patient compliance. (10.1054/jhsb.2002.0889)
  • [L2] In RCTs studying proximal humerus fractures, most studies rely on fracture pattern classification systems to describe inclusion and exclusion criteria, but these fail to objectively delineate which fractures should be included. (10.1016/j.xrrt.2025.07.023)
  • [L4] Complication rates, including deep infection and nonunion, are high, with frequent long-term functional limitations posed to the patient. (10.1016/j.jse.2020.07.012)
  • [L4] Short operating times and early mobilization of the elbow are the advantages of this technique. (10.1186/s13018-023-04465-2)
  • [L5] This approach offers promise for improved fracture stability and reduced complications. (10.1186/s12891-024-08235-x)
  • [L2] There is no evidence that any specific form or duration of immobilization is superior for fractures with limited deformity, and there are insufficient data to determine the best treatment for fractures with substantial angulation. (10.1016/j.jhsa.2009.06.015)
  • [L5] The consensus process reached unanimous agreement with respect to the use of MRI for nondisplaced fractures, the use of CT for comminuted or displaced fractures, indications for minimally invasive techniques, and use of adjunctive bone grafting. (10.1002/ksa.70241)
  • [L3] This cohort of Canadian patients aged > 65 years who experienced a fragility fracture at any site are at imminent risk of experiencing subsequent fracture within the next 2 years and should be proactively assessed and treated. (10.1186/s12891-021-04051-9)
  • [L3] Although history of fracture overall may not directly cause hypertension, people with a history of wrist fracture can be potentially benefitted from hypertension control at the early stage. (10.1186/s12891-015-0544-z)
  • [L5] The kinematics of the elbow deviated increasingly from those of the native joint with a 2 mm to a 4 mm lengthening of the radius. (10.1302/0301-620x.106b10.bjj-2024-0405.r1)
  • [L4] As the treatment rationale for ME injuries is often predicated on restoring elbow biomechanics through anatomical restoration of the UCL, identification of these injury patterns is potentially a key first step in understanding the variability in clinical outcomes with different management strategies for medial elbow injuries. (10.1177/2325967125s00159)
  • [L4] Among the three-column classification, quadrilateral plate fractures are commonly observed in type B and C. (10.1186/s13018-024-04783-z)
  • [L5] The study was intended to introduce a classification system for olecranon stress fractures, with operative indications for each type identified as an important next step for future study. (10.1177/0363546514541043)
  • [L5] The studied construct is biomechanically valid; it only allows micromovements that are not able to cause humeral head rotation and translation. (10.1016/j.jseint.2021.06.007)
  • [L4] Some authors have used the Gustilo classification to create alternative classifications, but these have not gained traction, while other contemporaneous literature has modified the Gustilo-IIIB subtypes to better stratify functional and reconstructive outcomes following vascular injury. (10.2106/jbjs.18.00342)
  • [L4] The local incidence of atypical femoral fractures is in line with published figures; however, medical management and identification of these fractures may be suboptimal. (10.1186/s12891-017-1392-9)
  • [L5] The letter clarifies that the Gustilo open fracture classification was published in two separate articles, with type III subtypes introduced in a 1984 publication by Gustilo, Mendoza, and Williams, rather than the 1976 article by Gustilo and Anderson. (10.1016/j.jse.2008.09.018)
  • [L3] This study presents detailed information about the various types of finger fractures which can be used as point of reference in clinical work and for future studies. (10.1371/journal.pone.0288506)
  • [L5] While the capitellum alone does not contribute to elbow stability, the trochlea has an important role. (10.1016/j.jse.2010.02.002)
  • [L4] The presented classification system as well as associated treatment algorithms for lateral clavicle fractures showed substantial inter- and intraobserver reliability. (10.1016/j.jse.2025.04.021)
  • [L4] Early functional mobilization allows for satisfactory restoration of elbow function. (10.1016/j.jse.2024.02.034)
  • [L4] The Mason classification is the most reliable system. (10.1186/1471-2474-10-120)
  • [L3] Non-surgical treatment was predominant across all ages but decreased markedly in older patients, while plate fixation use increased and tension-band wiring use decreased in popularity for surgically managed fractures. (10.1186/s13018-025-05970-2)
  • [L4] The Discovery Elbow System resulted in improved function, reduced pain, and high patient satisfaction. (10.1016/j.jse.2014.08.013)
  • [L5] The Neer classification system should continue to be used for communication, but clinicians must recognize that categorizing proximal humeral fractures is difficult and that reported treatment results may be inaccurate due to classification unreliability. (10.2106/00004623-199405000-00002)
  • [L4] This technique offers substantial stability for the fracture and results in excellent long-term recovery of joint function. (10.1186/s13018-024-04922-6)
  • [L5] Fixation must be secure enough to permit early motion to avoid significant stiffness of the elbow joint. (10.5435/00124635-200007000-00007)
  • [L2] It may be a useful safe alternative to optimize the evaluation and diagnosis of elbow trauma. (10.1016/j.jseint.2025.01.016)
  • [L5] Long-term outcome with surgical management of complex elbow injuries is unknown. (10.5435/00124635-200605000-00003)
  • [L4] Similar rates of medial elbow changes in Little Leaguers may imply that the roentgenological changes of the medial epicondyle could be an adaptive yet physiological reaction to the excessive valgus stress of throwing. (10.1177/0095399703258674)
  • [L3] Age over ten years is also a poor prognostic factor for recovery of the range of elbow movement. (10.1302/0301-620x.97b1.34492)
  • [L3] Our systematic review demonstrates similar outcomes with union and infection rates between all fixation techniques. (10.1177/17585732211010299)
  • [L4] Aggregate data support the non-operative treatment of isolated undisplaced olecranon fractures with good results, and support the operative treatment of fractures displaced ≥4 mm. (10.1302/2058-5241.5.190082)
  • [L5] Undisplaced or minimally displaced fractures with no rotational block to motion can be treated nonoperatively with excellent results expected. (10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.10.001)
  • [L4] Surgical management can be successful in athletes who sustain more significant trauma, who have elbow laxity or instability, or who have significant fracture fragment displacement. (10.1177/0363546513480797)
  • [L4] Acute elbow dislocations are traumatic events often resulting in pan-ligamentous disruption, suggesting that the most common injury pattern may begin with a medial-sided ligamentous disruption. (10.1016/j.jhsa.2013.11.031)
  • [L4] Nonoperative management is an acceptable treatment for supracondylar process fractures when there are no signs of neurovascular compromise. (10.1016/j.jseint.2020.07.011)
  • [L5] In terms of biomechanics, compared with other internal fixation methods, the novel combined anteromedial and anterolateral anatomical locking double-plate showed less stress, less displacement and greater stiffness. (10.1186/s13018-021-02836-1)
  • [L5] The majority of metacarpal fractures are managed nonoperatively. (10.1177/17531934231184119)
  • [L4] Each of the treatment modalities studied resulted in a reasonable level of elbow function. (10.1177/17585732221099845)
  • [L4] This arthroscopic procedure, performed with the elbow in the maximum flexed position using posterolateral and lateral portals and absorbable pins, is effective for fragment fixation. (10.1007/s00167-009-0945-3)
  • [Case_report] The patient was treated nonoperatively despite complete non-union and achieved a good functional outcome at 16 months with no pain, avascular necrosis, or head collapse. (10.1111/j.1758-5740.2010.00080.x)
  • [L1] No significant long-term differences were noted in the functional outcomes suggesting that both these techniques are comparable. (10.1186/s13018-020-02057-y)
  • [L4] Until the results are available, it is prudent to limit the use of bisphosphonates for the treatment of stress fractures. (10.1007/s00167-008-0673-0)
  • [L4] All cases achieved bone healing without docking site nonunion, and patients demonstrated good recovery of elbow joint function postoperatively with no significant limitations in flexion and extension. (10.1186/s13018-025-06058-7)
  • [Case_report] Magnetic resonance imaging can clearly delineate acute ruptures of the patellar ligament and avulsion fractures of the patella, aiding in diagnosis when radiographs are inconclusive due to small bone fragments. (10.2106/00004623-199511000-00012)
  • [L4] Loose bodies are often missed, especially on standard X-rays and MRIs. (10.1177/1758573218756866)
  • [L4] CT is recommended for improved characterization of any fracture with a coronoid component. (10.1016/j.jseint.2023.11.008)
  • [L5] The Regan-Morrey description provides a simple classification of fragment size based on a single lateral radiograph, but its reliability is only fair to moderate and its simplicity hinders full characterization of complex injury patterns. (10.1007/s11999.0000000000000072)
  • [L3] CT scans are more accurate to identify the injury pattern and have higher intra and inter observer reproducibility. (10.1016/j.jse.2021.03.099)
  • [L3] MRI is superior to radiograph in evaluating and diagnosing children's humeral lateral condyle fractures and their stability. (10.1186/s13018-021-02726-6)
  • [L3] At 6 months and 1 year after initial presentation, delayed bone union was associated with resumption of throwing at maximum strength before bone union had occurred. (10.1177/0363546512443807)
  • [L4] Advances in diagnostic imaging and classifications, combined with greater knowledge of treatment options, outcomes, and surgical techniques, will likely reduce the occurrence of complications in paediatric and adolescent patients and athletes, allowing them a timely return to sports and everyday activities. (10.1016/j.jisako.2023.06.001)
  • [L4] Type 1A and 2A coronal plane fractures typically had an excellent outcome. (10.1016/j.jse.2012.07.011)
  • [L4] Evaluation with radiographic examination or bone scan is indicated, and reduction of training load may prevent acute fracture. (10.1177/03635465010290021901)

See Also

References

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