Overview
what it is and why it matters
The olecranon is the bony prominence at the back of the elbow — the "tip" of the elbow that provides the attachment for the triceps muscle. Fractures are caused by a direct blow (fall onto the elbow) or by an avulsion fracture from a sudden, forceful triceps contraction. Because the triceps pulls the proximal fragment superiorly, displaced olecranon fractures disrupt the extensor mechanism and require surgical fixation to restore elbow extension.
Diagnosis
exam first, imaging secondPosterior elbow pain, swelling, and inability to extend the elbow against gravity. A gap may be palpable over the olecranon. AP and lateral elbow X-rays confirm the fracture and displacement.
Treatment Path
how care progresses at OSI1
Non-operative management
Reserved for undisplaced fractures (< 2 mm) with an intact extensor mechanism in appropriate patients — long arm splint in 30–40° flexion for 3 weeks followed by progressive motion.
Surgical Options at OSI
if non-operative care isn't enoughDisplaced fractures with disrupted extensor mechanism require operative fixation to restore elbow extension and prevent nonunion.
Providers Who Treat Olecranon Fracture
sports-medicine team
David B. Templin, M.D.
Trent Twitero, M.D.
Further Reading
authoritative sourcesExternal patient-education references and related OSI pages for additional background: