Treatment of Olecranon Fractures with Proximal Ulna Comminution Using Locking Compression Plates

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical results of locking compression plate (LCP) fixation for olecranon fractures with proximal ulna comminution. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We review 10 cases of olecranon fractures with proximal ulna comminution treated with LCPs from August 2011 to August 2013. Follow-up period was from 12 months to 18 months. Mean age was 63.1 years (35-84 years). According to the Mayo classification, there were eight type IIB, and two type IIIB fractures. We used Mayo classification. Clinical evaluation was performed based on radiographic union of olecranon and measurements of range of motion at last follow-up. Disability of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score and Mayo elbow performance score (MEPS) were used for evaluation of functional recovery. RESULTS: All patients had bone union. According to the MEPS, nine of ten patients had a good or excellent outcome. The mean DASH score was 18.6. All cases started postoperative range of motion (ROM) within 14 days. Elbow ROM was more than 110degrees in all cases except one. Mean radiological bony union time was 4.2 months (2.5-6.0 months) postoperatively. Complication was hardware irritation in three patients. CONCLUSION: Internal fixation using LCP for olecranon fractures with proximal ulna comminution can be a good treatment option which obtains good clinical results and enables early ROM.