Compression Screw Fixation for Pediatric Olecranon Fractures

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Pediatric orthopedics
• Trauma surgery

Background:

• Olecranon fractures are common in children.
• Current fixation methods lack clear pediatric outcome data.
• Screw fixation outcomes in pediatric olecranon fractures require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess clinical, radiographic, functional, and patient-reported outcomes of pediatric olecranon fractures treated with compression screw fixation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 37 pediatric patients (40 fractures) treated with screw fixation.
• Data collected included demographics, time to union, range of motion, and complications.
• Patient-reported outcomes assessed using QuickDASH and PROMIS Upper Extremity 8a.

Main Results:

• No malunions or nonunions observed.
• Mean time to radiographic union was 53 days.
• Good functional outcomes with mean QuickDASH score of 4.2 and PROMIS score of 37.

Conclusions:

• Screw fixation demonstrated excellent radiographic, functional, and patient-reported outcomes in pediatric olecranon fractures.
• No growth disturbances or refractures occurred.
• Screw fixation is a safe and effective treatment option for this patient population.