Surgical technique in tension band wiring method for selected comminuted olecranon fractures

Background The use of tension band wiring (TBW) for comminuted olecranon fractures is less recommendable these days. However, some experts preferentially apply TBW to comminuted fractures resulting in favorable outcomes. We here present the surgical technique using TBW with eyelet and absorbable pins for selected comminuted olecranon fractures and review the clinical and radiographic outcomes. Methods Twenty-four surgically treated patients with Colton Group 2C or 2D olecranon fractures in focus on the intermediate fragment (IMF) were enrolled. IMFs were primarily fixed with buried bioabsorbable poly- l -lactic acid pins followed by definitive fixation of the olecranon process with TBW with eyelet. The adequacy of the reconstructed notch was especially estimated by parameters on radiographs using digital imaging software. Results The average follow-up was 30 months (10 to 86 months). All 24 fractures achieved union, and the maintenance of the articular curvature was confirmed according to statistical analysis on radiographs. The average elbow flexion was 135.1° (range 100° to 145°), and the average elbow extension was − 4.8° (range − 20° to 10°). The mean Mayo Elbow Performance score was 97.3 points (range 80 to 100 points). No cases of pin migration, infection, nerve problem, heterotrophic ossification, or secondary osteoarthritis were observed. Conclusions For selected comminuted olecranon fractures, TBW with the eyelet pins and biodegradable pins could yield satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes.