Fractures of the olecranon in children : long-term follow-up

Olecranon fractures are relatively uncommon in children, and most are nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures that can be treated by closed methods. During a 30-year period, 44 olecranon fractures were treated. Of 41 fractures with adequate follow-up, 37 (90%) had satisfactory results. Of 30 undisplaced or minimally displaced (< 5 mm) fractures, 28 (93%) had satisfactory results. Seven of 9 (78%) displaced fractures had satisfactory results. The most common cause of unsatisfactory results was loss of motion, although this usually did not prevent good function.