Comparison of the Subjective Elbow Value with the DASH, MEPS und Morrey Score after Olecranon Fractures

Abstract

Abstract Background Olecranon fractures are common injuries that can occur in patients of any age. To assess the postoperative outcome, multiple scoring systems like the DASH, MEPS und Morrey Score have been described. The goal of this paper is to compare the subjective elbow value (SEV) to these commonly used scoring systems. We hypothesized that the SEV would have a high correlation and practicability for the evaluation of elbow function after isolated olecranon injury. Patients and Methods Clinical data of 40 patients were collected and retrospectively analysed. All patients suffered an isolated olecranon fracture and were surgically treated by tension band wiring or plate fixation. In the follow-up examinations the Mayo Score, DASH Score, Morrey Score and SEV were measured for correlation purposes. Results The mean follow-up time was 70.5 ± 45.6 months. The median DASH Score was 9.9 (4.1 – 20.4) and 100 (85 – 100) for the MEPS. The median Morrey Score was 98 (92 – 100). The median SEV was 90% (80 – 95%). The Pearson correlation between the DASH and SEV was −0.85 and 0.80 between the MEPS and the SEV. Conclusions The SEV shows a high correlation to the most commonly used scoring systems for outcome evaluation after elbow injury. It is easy to use and can be seen as a valuable tool to assess patients after olecranon fractures.