Classifications

There are several classifications that describe different forms of olecranon fractures, yet none of them have gained widespread acceptance:

Classifications | Mayo classification

Based on the stability, the displacement and the comminution of the fracture. It is composed of three types, and each type is divided in two subtypes: subtype A (non-comminuted) and subtype B (comminuted).

- Type I: Non-displaced fracture – It can be either non-comminuted ones (Type IA) or comminuted (Type IB).

- Type II: Displaced, stable fractures – In this pattern, the proximal fracture fragment is displaced more than 3 mm, but the collateral ligaments are intact. That is why there is no elbow instability. It can be either non-comminuted ones (Type IIA) or comminuted (Type IIB).

- Type III: Displaced instable fracture – In this case, the fracture fragments are displaced and the forearm is instable in relation to the humerus. It is a fracture -dislocation. It also may be either non-comminuted (Type IIIA) or comminuted (Type IIIB).

Classifications | AO classification

This classification incorporates all fractures of the proximal ulna and radius into one group, subdivided into three patterns:

- Type A: Extra-articular fractures of the metadiaphysis of either the radius or the ulna

- Type B: Intra-articular fractures of either the radius or ulna

- Type C: Complex fractures of both the proximal radius and ulna

Signs and symptoms

People with olecranon fractures present with intense elbow pain after a direct blow or fall. Swelling over the bone site is seen and an inability to straighten the elbow is common. Due to the proximity of the olecranon to the ulnar nerve, the injury and swelling may cause numbness and tingling at the 4th and 5th fingers. Examination can bring out a palpable defect at the site of the fracture.

Mechanism

Olecranon fractures are common. Typically they are caused by direct blows to the elbow (e.g. motor vehicle accidents), and due to falls when the triceps are contracted. "Side-swipe" injury when driving a motor vehicle with an elbow projecting outside the vehicle resting on an open window's edge is an example.

Direct trauma: This can happen in a fall with landing on the elbow or by being hit by a solid object. Trauma to the elbow often results in comminuted fractures of the olecranon.

Indirect trauma: by falling and landing with an outstretched arm.

Powerful pull of the triceps muscle can also cause avulsion fractures.

Diagnosis

To assess an olecranon fracture, a careful skin exam is performed to ensure there is no open fracture. Then a complete neurological exam of the upper limb should be documented. Frontal and lateral X-ray views of the elbow are typically done to investigate the possibility of an olecranon fracture. A true lateral x-ray is essential to determine the fracture pattern, degree of displacement, comminution, and the degree of articular involvement.

Treatment | Nondisplaced fractures

In fractures with little or no displacement, immobilization with a posterior splint may be sufficient. Elbows be immobilized at 45-90º of flexion for 3 weeks, followed by limited (90º) flexion exercises.

Treatment | Displaced fractures

Most olecranon fractures are displaced and are best treated surgically:

Treatment | Displaced fractures | Tension band fixation

Tension band fixation is the most common form of internal fixation used for non-comminuted olectranon fractures. It is typically reserved for noncomminuted fractures that are proximal to the coronoid. This procedure is performed using Kirschner wire (K-wires) which converts tensile forces into compressive force.

Treatment | Displaced fractures | Intramedullary fixation and plates

Single intramedullary screws can be used to treat simple transverse or oblique fractures. Plates can be used for all proximal ulna fracture types including Monteggia fractures, and comminuted fractures.

Treatment | Displaced fractures | Excision and triceps advancement

This method is indicated for cases when open reduction and internal fixation is unlikely to be successful. For example: extensive comminutions, elderly patients with osteoporotic bone, and small or non-union fractures.

Epidemiology

Olecranon fractures are rare in children, constituting only 5 to 7% of all elbow fractures. This is because in early life, olecranon is thick, short and much stronger than the lower extremity of the humerus.

However, olecranon fractures are a common injury in adults. This is partly due to its exposed position on the point of the elbow.