Resection arthroplasty for comminuted olecranon fractures

Five cases of comminuted olecranon fractures treated by resection of the proximal fragments are reviewed. The patients' average age was 56 years and all were radiographically osteopenic. The triceps was advanced and attached to the distal olecranon with the elbow flexed at 90 degrees. A standard postoperative regimen was used with immobilization for three weeks in plaster at 45 to 60 degrees of flexion followed by progression to cautious active range of motion exercises. Follow-up of from 18 to 54 months shows an average active range of motion of 10 degrees flexion to 120 degrees flexion. There were no complaints or clinical evidence of instability and minimal degenerative changes were seen on radiography. We conclude that resection arthroplasty of comminuted olecranon fractures yields excellent clinical and functional results in elderly patients.