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Olecranon Fracture
Aka: Olecranon Fracture
- Mechanism
- Direct Traumatic blow to elbow
- Traumatic fall on Olecranon
- Triceps tendon avulsion
- Signs
- Olecranon bursa swelling
- Fracture site may be palpable
- Evaluate elbow extension
- Impaired extension is a red flag and requires orthopedic Consultation
- Indications: Orthopedic referral
- Referral is indicated in most cases of intra-articular Olecranon Fracture (non-avulsion Fractures)
- Management is controversial and local Consultation is recommended
- Impaired elbow extension
- Management: Non-Displaced Fracture
- Indications
- Displacement <5mm and further displacement unlikely and
- Extensor mechanism intact
- Immobilization with elbow at 45 degrees
- First 2 weeks: Molded posterior plaster splint
- After 2 weeks: sling
- Exercises
- Gradually increase Elbow range of motion
- Management: Displaced Fracture
- Open reduction and Internal fixation
- Restores alignment and triceps insertion
- References
- Black (2009) Am Fam Physician 80(10): 1096-102 [PubMed]
- Hak (2000) J Am Acad Orthop Surg 8(4): 266-75 [PubMed]