Olecranon Fracture

Aka: Olecranon Fracture

advertisement

II. Mechanism

  1. Direct Traumatic blow to elbow
  2. Traumatic fall on Olecranon
  3. Triceps tendon avulsion

III. Signs

  1. Olecranon bursa swelling
  2. Fracture site may be palpable
  3. Evaluate elbow extension
    1. Impaired extension is a red flag and requires orthopedic Consultation

IV. Indications: Orthopedic referral

  1. Referral is indicated in most cases of intra-articular Olecranon Fracture (non-avulsion Fractures)
    1. Management is controversial and local Consultation is recommended
  2. Impaired elbow extension

V. Management: Non-Displaced Fracture

  1. Indications
    1. Displacement <5mm and further displacement unlikely and
    2. Extensor mechanism intact
  2. Immobilization with elbow at 45 degrees
    1. First 2 weeks: Molded posterior plaster splint
    2. After 2 weeks: sling
  3. Exercises
    1. Gradually increase Elbow range of motion

VI. Management: Displaced Fracture

  1. Open reduction and Internal fixation
    1. Restores alignment and triceps insertion

VII. References

  1. Black (2009) Am Fam Physician 80(10): 1096-102 [PubMed]
  2. Hak (2000) J Am Acad Orthop Surg 8(4): 266-75 [PubMed]

Images: Related links to external sites (from Bing)

These images are a random sampling from a Bing search on the term "Olecranon Fracture." Click on the image (or right click) to open the source website in a new browser window. Search Bing for all related images

Related Topics in Elbow Disorders

advertisement