Isolated Osteochondral Fracture of the Trochlea in the Coronal Plane in a Child Before Ossification of the Trochlea: A Case Report and Literature Review

J Hand Surg Am. 2018 Feb;43(2):190.e1-190.e5. doi: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2017.07.004. Epub 2017 Aug 12.

Abstract

Isolated coronal shear fracture of the trochlea is a rare injury. Isolated fractures of the humeral trochlea have all been reported in adults. We present the case of a 7-year-old boy with pain and swelling of the elbow joint. Magnetic resonance imaging and arthrogram revealed an isolated osteochondral fracture of the trochlea in the coronal plane. Ossification of the trochlea had not yet occurred. An anterior approach was used for reduction and fixation of the fragment. A good clinical outcome was achieved with no signs of bony or chondral necrosis of the fragment 1 year after surgery.

Keywords: Trochlea; ossification; osteochondral fracture.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Elbow Injuries*
  • Elbow Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Elbow Joint / surgery*
  • Fracture Fixation
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal
  • Humans
  • Male