Evaluating Tension Band Wiring for Olecranon Fractures
Author Information
Author(s): Chalidis Byron E, Sachinis Nick C, Samoladas Efthimios P, Dimitriou Christos G, Pournaras John D
Primary Institution: 1st Orthopaedic Department of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
Hypothesis
Is tension band wiring technique the 'gold standard' for the treatment of olecranon fractures?
Conclusion
Tension band wiring fixation remains the 'gold standard' for treating displaced and minimally comminuted olecranon fractures, with low levels of pain and degenerative changes evident in the long term.
Supporting Evidence
- 85.5% of patients had a good to excellent result according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Score.
- The average satisfaction rating was 9.3 out of 10.
- Degenerative changes were recorded in 48.4% of elbows.
- 66.6% of patients who had hardware removal still reported mild pain.
Takeaway
This study looked at how well a common surgery works for broken elbows. Most people felt good after the surgery, but some still had mild pain even after the metal was taken out.
Methodology
The study reviewed 62 patients who underwent tension band wiring for olecranon fractures, assessing elbow function and patient outcomes over an average follow-up of 8.2 years.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the retrospective nature and the subjective nature of patient-reported outcomes.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all variables affecting outcomes.
Participant Demographics
62 patients (33 men and 29 women) with an average age of 48.6 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.032
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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