Olecranon Fracture is basically a fracture to the elbow, the tip or bony point that extends from one of the lower bones of the arm.. When an individual bend’s the elbow, the tip at the bend can easily be felt. It is directly under the skin of the elbow and has little protection with soft tissues are muscles. So, it is easily broken if there is a blow directly to the elbow or a fall on the elbow bend. The area is also referred to as the “funny bone”.

Treatment of this type of fracture is dependent on the total sum of displacement of the fragments as well as the ability to function of the triceps muscle. When the fracture is not displaced or displacement is only minimal and the triceps muscles are able to lengthen the elbow then surgery usually will not be needed. With these cases, protected motion as well as time general heals the break. Normally, treatment surgically of these fractures is the usual procedure.

When the fragments of bone are out of position, or if the triceps muscle are detached, surgery is necessary for treatment of this type of fracture. There are several methods to repair an olecranon fracture. With an incision made over the elbow joint back the bone fragments are moved into their proper location. A combination of wires, pins and/or screws are used to secure all the bone fragments into the proper position.

Individuals are normally restrained for a very brief period, as the goal is to start elbow motion as quickly as possible. Normally gentle motion will begin within the week after surgery. The sum of motion that will be allowed is dependent on how strong the repair to the fracture is and the bone surrounding it. Total healing time of this type fracture is approximately 12 weeks.