Fractures of the olecranon

OBJECTIVE: Fractures of the olecranon are the most common fractures of the elbow in adults. Due to the dislocating force of the triceps muscle, internal fixation is the treatment of choice. INDICATIONS: All fractures of the olecranon without contraindications. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Infection and severe soft tissue damage. SURGICAL TECHNIQUE: Dorsal approach to the olecranon with the patient in a prone position. Open reduction and internal fixation with tension band wiring or plate fixation according to fracture pattern. POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT: Treatment goal is early functional mobilization. No load bearing allowed for 6-8 weeks; full load bearing is allowed after fracture healing. RESULTS: The quality of published studies concerning the surgical treatment of olecranon fractures is poor. Published functional results are predominantly good and excellent. Hardware removal was often required.