17. Diagnosis and treatment of olecranon fractures Flashcards
1
Q
How can you diagnose an olecranon fracture?
A
Symptoms
* Hemorrhagic effusion of elbow joint
* Inability to extend the elbow actively
* Tingling of 4th and 5th fingers (ulnar nerve damage)
Imaging
* X-ray
2
Q
How can you treat an olecranon fracture?
A
Nondisplaced fracture:
* Immobilization with a posterior splint (for 3 weeks), followed by limited flexion and exercises
Displaced fracture:
* Tension band fixation (K wires)
* Plate fixation
3
Q
When is tension band fixation contraindicated?
A
Contraindicated with olecranon fractures that are a distal to the midpoint of the trochlear notch
