Abstract
Tension-band wire fixation of olecranon fractures leads to a high re-operation rate because of the need to remove the metalware. This problem has commonly been thought to be related mainly to the backing-out of the Kirschner wires. A retrospective study was carried out in 55 patients with displaced olecranon fractures operated on with the tension-band wiring technique, in whom there was an overall 71.7% re-operation rate. Complications were few and minor in most patients. The main reason for the removal of the metalware was a direct complaint from the patient (in 61.3% of all removals). A literature review analyzing the causes of metalware removal is also presented.
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Received: May 17, 1999 / Accepted: December 13, 1999
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Romero, J., Miran, A. & Jensen, C. Complications and re-operation rate after tension-band wiring of olecranon fractures. J Orthop Sci 5, 318–320 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/s007760070036
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s007760070036