The effect of triceps repair techniques following olecranon excision on elbow stability and extension strength: an in vitro biomechanical study

Revision Olecranon Fixation: Is Tension Band Wiring the Solution? A Case Series and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

The optimal revision construct for failed olecranon fracture fixation is controversial. Here, we aim to review existing revision techniques and describe tension band wiring as a surgical option for these challenging scenarios and to evaluate its clinical and radiographic outcomes.

METHODS

This retrospective case series was performed at an urban, university-based, level-1 trauma center. Patients aged 18 to 65 years who underwent revision fixation of their olecranon fracture using tension band wiring were included. The study data were collected through a retrospective chart review and review of the existing radiographic studies. Primary outcome measure was mechanical failure. Secondary outcome measures included nonunion, malunion, medical, and surgical complications. Functional outcome was determined by range of motion and restoration of extensor mechanism strength.

RESULTS

A total of five patients were included in this study. Causes for revision were acute implant failure (n = 2), aseptic nonunion (n = 1), and infected nonunion (n = 2). All patients eventually achieved bony union after revision. Two patients required an additional surgery because of Kirschner wire migration (n = 1) and symptomatic implant (n = 1). Average flexion was 126° (range 110 to 135) and average extension was 18° (range 5 to 30). All patients experienced restoration of extensor mechanism with full strength and returned to their previous working status. No other mechanical failures, surgical complications, or medical complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Early results of revision open reduction and internal fixation for failed olecranon fracture fixation using tension band wiring demonstrated favorable outcomes and low complication rates. This technique may be used for revision of failed olecranon fixation.

Olecranon Tendo-Osseous Allograft Reconstruction for Complex Extensor Mechanism and Bone Loss at the Elbow

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to present the results of olecranon tendo-osseous allograft (OTOA) reconstruction for patients with an irreparable extensor mechanism from prior trauma or failed total elbow arthroplasty (TEA).

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed of all patients with extensor mechanism loss after trauma or failed TEA who were treated with an OTOA to supplement fracture fixation or elbow arthroplasty, as indicated. Primary outcome measures were successful healing of the allograft, restoration of the extensor mechanism function, and Mayo Elbow Performance Scores (MEPS) at the most recent follow-up. Secondary outcomes included patients' active range of motion and unplanned operative interventions.

RESULTS

Nine patients had extensor mechanism and proximal ulna loss as a result of prior TEA, acute trauma, or failed surgeries for prior trauma. All but one had undergone multiple prior surgeries. The mean follow-up was 27 months (6-60 months). At the final follow-up, patients reported MEPS of 92 (80-100). All patients regained active triceps extension (strength 3-5/5). Mean final range of motion was 16° (0° to 45°) extension, 124° (70° to 150°) flexion, 56° (45° to 80°) pronation, and 60° (40° to 80°) supination. Eight (89%) of the nine patients had a radiographically healed graft at the latest follow-up, of which four healed without notable complications or further surgical intervention. Complications included radial/ulnar nerve palsy, allograft olecranon stress fracture, deep infection, wound complications, instability, and complications related to the TEA prosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

In the setting of elbow reconstruction in which there is inadequate triceps tendon and/or olecranon bone stock to perform internal fixation and/or revision arthroplasty, OTOA may supplement elbow reconstruction, albeit with high rates of complications. A triceps-olecranon allograft, combined with either internal fixation or TEA, is a potentially useful salvage procedure for managing bone loss and an irreparable extensor mechanism deficit at the elbow.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic V.

Complex coronoid and proximal ulna fractures are we getting better at fixing these?

Technological advances and improved understanding of functional anatomy about the elbow have lead an evolution regarding operative reconstruction of complex proximal ulnar and coronoid fractures. When treating these complex and challenging fractures, goals of anatomic articular restoration along with balanced soft tissue stability can lead to early range of motion and thus, desired functional outcome. The purpose of this review is to outline and provide tips and pearls to achieve desired results, with a comprehensive update on the most recent literature to support the latest fixation methods and techniques.