Abstract

RODRIGUEZ, Martín P; ARGUELLES, Santiago; SOUTULLO, Jorge  and  PEREIRA, Enrique. Osteosíntesis de olécranon: Sistema absorbe-tracción utilizando suturas de alta resistencia. Rev. Asoc. Argent. Ortop. Traumatol. [online]. 2019, vol.84, n.4, pp.342-352. ISSN 1852-7434.

Objectives: Open reduction and internal fixation using tension band wiring is an efficient approach that offers predictable results in patients with olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification). Many surgeons consider it a simple and reproducible technique for restoring the anatomy responsible for elbow extension, as well as its functional continuity. This technique may be associated with a relatively high percentage of complications, as well as the need to remove the previous cerclage wire, if present. The purpose of our study was to determine if replacing the traditional 1.6 mm Kirschner wires with high resistance suture materials could reliably maintain reduction in patients with olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification), and to analyze the results. Materials and Methods: Twenty-five consecutive patients were studied retrospectively. All of them presented olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification), and were treated with open reduction and internal fixation using tension band wiring built with two 1.6 mm Kirschner wires and two high resistance sutures (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene). A minimum 12-month follow up was performed in all patients. Time to bone healing, range of motion and functional scores were evaluated and complications recorded. Results: All fractures healed in an average time of 6.83 weeks (range 6-10). The average Mayo score was 96.6 (range 85-100). The average range of motion for active elbow flexion-extension was 139 degrees (range 130-150). The average extension and flexion was -4.8 degrees (range 0 to -20) and 143.8 (range 130-150). Four cases of proximal migration of the Kirschner wires and one case of a 3 mm loss of reduction in the third postoperative week were reported. Two patients required a second intervention for removal of the Kirschner wires. None of the patients reported pain or discomfort as a a result of the sutures. Conclusions: Tension band wiring using high resistance suture materials is an adequate alternative for the surgical management of olecranon fractures types 2A and 3A (Mayo Classification). Clinical and radiological outcomes in this series were satisfactory, and the complication rate was low. The use of high resistance suture materials may simplify the procedure and reduce the need of a second intervention to remove the hardware.

Keywords : Fractures; Olecranon; Tension band; Wire; High resistance sutures.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )