Olecranon Fracture

An olecranon fracture is a break in the bony prominence of the elbow, known as the olecranon, which is part of the ulna (one of the forearm bones). This type of fracture often occurs due to direct trauma to the elbow, such as falling on a bent elbow or receiving a direct blow.

Symptoms

– Pain and Swelling: Severe pain at the back of the elbow, often accompanied by swelling.
– Inability to Straighten the Arm: Due to the involvement of the triceps tendon, straightening the arm may be difficult or impossible.

– Visible Deformity: Sometimes, the fracture may cause an obvious deformity or gap in the elbow.
– Bruising and Tenderness: Bruising around the elbow and tenderness to touch.

Diagnosis

– Physical Examination: A doctor will assess the elbow for pain, swelling, and range of motion.

– X-rays: These are used to confirm the fracture and assess its severity, as well as to determine if the bones are displaced.

Treatment

– Nonsurgical Treatment: If the bones are not displaced, treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or splint for several weeks to allow the bone to heal naturally.
– Surgical Treatment: If the fracture is displaced, surgery is often necessary to realign and stabilize the bones. Common surgical options include:

– Tension Band Wiring (TBW): This technique involves placing a wire loop to hold the bone fragments together.
– Plate and Screw Fixation: In more complex fractures, a plate with screws may be used to stabilize the fracture.

Rehabilitation

After treatment, physical therapy is usually recommended to restore range of motion and strength.

Recovery can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the type of treatment received, but it typically takes several months to fully recover.

Complications:
Possible complications can include stiffness, nerve damage, infection (in the case of surgery), and post-traumatic arthritis. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial to monitor healing and address any issues that arise.

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