TENSION BAND SUTURE FIXATION OF SIMPLE OLECRANON FRACTURES AND OLECRANON OSTEOTOMIES.

Introduction
Olecranon fractures are common fractures of the elbow that may require surgical management
when there is fracture displacement and disruption of the extensor mechanism. Tension band wire
technique has been traditionally used for the surgical management of simple olecranon fractures
(displaced, transverse, non-comminuted). Tension band suture fixation represents a technique
gaining popularity due to satisfactory outcomes and significantly lower re-operation rate compared
to tension band wire fixation.
Aim
This study aims to present the latest evidence supporting the use of tension band suture fixation
over the tension band wiring for simple olecranon fractures and olecranon osteotomies.
Material & Methods
Retrospective review of the literature suggests that traditional tension band wire fixation of simple
olecranon fractures is associated with higher reoperation rate for removal of metalwork, due to skin
irritation.
Results
Tension band suture fixation is reliable in providing union of simple olecranon fractures and
olecranon osteotomies. There is no difference in biomechanical properties (ie. fixation strength) and
lower reoperation rate (due to implant-related complications), in comparison with tension band wire
fixation constructs.
Conclusions
Tension band suture fixation is a reliable, reproducible and safe fixation technique for simple
olecranon fractures and olecranon osteotomies, with lower reoperation rates compared to
conventional tension band wire fixation.