Fixation of isolated fracture of the humeral trochlea through posterior trans-olecaron approach

Abstract Background: An isolated coronal plane fracture of the humeral trochlea is very rare. We report a study of 5 patients with isolated fracture of the humeral trochlea in coronal plane operated through posterior approach including olecaron osteotomy followed by herbert screw fixation. Materials and Methods: 5 patients sustaining isolated fracture of the humeral trochlea were included in the study. The patients were operated through a posterior approach involving olecaron osteotomy and osteosynthesis was achieved via Herbert screws. The patients were followed up at regular intervals and functional ability was assessed through the Mayo Elbow Performance Index(MEPI). Results: The mean time of injury to surgery was 3.4±1.14 days. 4 out of the 5 patients had excellent outcome as per the MEPI scores and 1 patient had good outcome. Conclusion: Isolated fractures of humeral trochlea in coronal plane can be effectively treated with posterior approach and Herbert screw fixation.