Olecranon fracture

Q: What obvious fracture is present? Why are these usually significantly displaced? show answer

A: Olecranon fractures are usually displaced because of the unopposed traction on the fracture exerted by the triceps muscle.

Q: What nerve is most frequently damaged in these fractures? show answer

A: The ulnar nerve is most likely injured, use to its close proximity to the olecranon as it passes behind the medial epicondyle.

Q: How are these fractures usually treated? show answer

A: Because of the displacement, these fractures usually require open reduction and internal fixation.

Q: What is the prognosis of these fractures? show answer

A: Union rates with appropriate treatment are very high (~99%) and other than slight reduction in flexion and extension at the elbow, function is preserved. Unlike many other intra-articular fractures, olecranon fractures result in relatively little secondary osteoarthritic changes, probably on account of most fractures occurring though a relatively non-articular part of the trochlear groove.