Functional Outcomes of Olecranon Process Fracture Treatment Using the Tension Band Wiring Technique

Mohsin Parvez; Nischay   Kaushik; Akhilesh Kumar  Sharma; Reetesh  Roshan

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i6.1241

Authors

Mohsin Parvez Senior Resident, Department of Orthopaedic, IGIMS, Patna, Bihar, India
Nischay Kaushik Senior Resident, Department of Orthopaedic, Dr Ambedkar Medical College & Hospital, Delhi, India
Akhilesh Kumar Sharma Junior Resident, Department of Orthopaedic, IGIMS, Patna, Bihar, India
Reetesh Roshan Senior Resident, Department of Orthopaedic, IGIMS, Patna, Bihar, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v5i6.1241

Keywords:

Olecranon fractures, Tension band wiring, Functional outcomes, Complications, Elbow surgery

Abstract

Background

Olecranon fractures (OF) are a common elbow injury, often necessitating surgical intervention to restore function and anatomy. The tension band wiring (TBW) technique is frequently employed due to its biomechanical efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, complications such as hardware irritation and infection remain concerns, highlighting the need for ongoing evaluation of its outcomes. This study retrospectively assessed the functional outcomes and complications of the TBW technique for treating olecranon process fractures.

Methods

Thirty individuals treated with TBW for isolated OF were included. Data on demographics, fracture classification, complications, and functional outcomes were collected. Functional outcomes were evaluated using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and range of motion (ROM). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21.0.

Results

The average age was 42.5 years, with 60% male. The majority had Mayo Type IIB fractures (70%). Complications were noted in 20% of patients, primarily hardware irritation (13.3%) and infection (6.7%). The mean MEPS score improved significantly from 55.2 ± 10.5 at baseline to 88.5 ± 7.8 at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). Flexion-extension ROM increased

from 90° ± 15° to 135° ± 10° (p < 0.01), and pronation-supination ROM from 60° ± 10° to 85° ± 5° (p < 0.01). Eighty per cent of patients achieved excellent or good outcomes.

Conclusion

The TBW technique demonstrated favourable functional outcomes with significant MEPS scores and ROM improvements. Despite a 20% complication rate, the complications were manageable. These findings support the efficacy of TBW in olecranon fracture management.

Recommendations

Future studies should explore modifications to the TBW technique and alternative materials to reduce complications.