Outcome assessment of locking plate fixation for management of displaced olecranon fractures

Materials and Methods: The present observational study was conducted in the department of Orthopedics, American International Institute of Medical Sciences, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. Total 25 patients, who underwent plate fixation of displaced olecranon fractures, were reviewed. All patients were asked to attend for routine review at two weeks, six weeks, three months and six months after surgery as standard protocol. The clinical results were assessed according to the Broberg and Morrey scale [1], which categorizes results as excellent (>95 points), good (80 to 94 points), fair (60 to 79 points) and poor (< 60 points). Analyses of any complications observed in terms of loss of reduction, infection, problems of union, symptomatic prominent hardwire and implant failure.

Results: Mean flexion extension arc of elbow is 116.20 with mean flexion 125.70, mean extension loss 10.20, mean pronation 78o, mean supination 81.5o and excellent clinical outcome was reported among 76% cases as per Broberg and Morrey scale. 22 patients achieved fracture union during a six months follow up period.

Conclusion: Locking plate fixation is an effective treatment option for displaced olecranon fractures with a good functional outcome and a low incidence of complications.