Outcomes of Displaced Olecranon Fractures Treated with the Olecranon Sled

Background: Tension-band wiring is largely considered the gold standard for fixation of displaced olecranon fractures despite high rates of hardware complications. The purpose of this study was to report the outcomes of displaced olecranon fractures treated with the Olecranon Sled.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all displaced olecranon fractures from 2011-2015 treated with the Olecranon Sled. Inclusion was limited to functionally independent patients with Mayo type II fractures and minimum 12-month follow-up. We assessed clinical outcomes including range of motion; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score; and Mayo Elbow Performance Score.

Results: Twenty-two patients with a mean follow-up period of 31.8 months (range, 12-71 months) were included in the study. All patients indicated satisfactory outcomes. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score was 95.5 (range, 70-100), and the mean Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score was 3.1 (range, 0-18.3). The mean total arc of elbow flexion was 145° (range, 134°-158°), and the mean total arc of forearm rotation was 175° (range, 160°-180°). There were no hardware-related complications. The overall complication rate was 4.5% (1 of 22) as significant heterotopic ossification developed in 1 patient, requiring contracture release.

Conclusion: The Olecranon Sled is a reliable and well-tolerated implant for the treatment of olecranon fractures. This device results in excellent functional outcomes and may obviate hardware removal.