EVALUATION OF FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME OF MODIFIED TENSION BAND WIRING AT 6 MONTHS IN ISOLATED OLECRANON FRACTURES IN ADULTS

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures of the olecranon account for 8 - 10 % of all fractures around the elbow joint . An uncomplicated fracture of the olecranon is considered to be a common injury. Incidence in adult population is approximately 11.5% per 1 64 100000 population .Younger individuals suffer fracture olecranon due to high energy trauma and older individuals due to simple fall . When displaced, open reduction and internal xation is usually required to obtain anatomical realignment of the articular surface and restore normal elbow function. The xation should be stable, allow active elbow exion and extension and promote union of the fracture. There are other modalities of xation of isolated olecranon fractures, such as olecranon hook plate and cannulated lag screws as well but tension band wiring is less costly and operative complications are less in non comminuted olecranon fractures. Material and methods: This prospective observational study was done over a period of 2 years on transverse and oblique fractures of olecranon. Results: the outcome of our study was favorable in support of tension band wiring in transverse and oblique fracture of olecranon in respect to union rate, early initiation of physiotherapy and nal range of motion. Conclusion: By this method post-operative immobilization in POP is greatly minimized. Thereby avoiding fracture disease.Because of rigid xation between the fracture fragments, early active and functional movements can be given to the patient reducing the chances of joint stiffness. Early initiation of physiotherapy program within 2 – 3 weeks induces compression between the fragments. This compression hastens fracture healing. Because of early union of fracture, patient is back to work earlier