Triceps tendon avulsion: a rare injury

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Traumatology

Background:

• Triceps tendon avulsion is an uncommon tendinous injury.
• It is often overlooked in patients with posterior elbow pain and swelling post-trauma.

Observation:

• A case of missed triceps tendon avulsion is presented.
• Diagnosis was confirmed via physical examination and radiographic review.
• Surgical repair utilized a transosseous suture technique (Krakow method).

Findings:

• The patient achieved a good range of motion and equal strength post-surgery.
• Key diagnostic indicators include high suspicion, palpable gaps, and "flake" fractures on radiographs.
• Delayed diagnosis can complicate management.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the importance of early recognition and prompt surgical intervention for triceps avulsion.
• Recommends a secondary examination after swelling subsides in unclear cases.
• Transosseous suture repair (Krakow method) is advised for optimal outcomes.