Functional Outcome of Treatment of Deviated Olecranon Fracture (Mayo 2a) by an Intramedullary Screw With Tension Band Compared to Classic Tension Band - A Prospective Randomized Study

Abstract

Objective evaluate the functional treatment outcome of deviated transverse olecranon fractures (Mayo 2A) after treatment with tension-banded intramedullary screw (PIBT) compared to classical tension band (BTC). Methods Prospectively collect all deviated transverse olecranon fractures from 2012 to 2016 and randomize them into PIBT and BTC groups. Range of motion (ROM) was measured after 2 and 5 weeks, 3 and 6 months, and 1 and 2 years. Functional assessments (DASH, Oxford Elbow Score, and Mayo Elbow Performance Index) were performed after 3 and 6 months and 1 and 2 years. Complications were collected up to 2 years of follow-up. Results 22 patients were included, 11 in each group. The mean age was 47.9 years, and the left side was injured in 13 (59.0%) patients. All patients completed the 2-year follow-up. There was no ROM difference at any time between the two groups (p> 0.005). Flexion and extension gain was maximum at three months and remained unchanged until two years. Neither flexion nor extension returned to normal, missing around 10°. Pronation and supination returned to normal. All three functional scores showed almost complete recovery of elbow function after three months postoperatively, with no difference between the groups. No group had complications, no reoperation, and no implant removal. Conclusion PIBT had similar results in ROM and functional score compared to BTC. Both had low complication rates and no need for implant removal. Level of evidence I; Randomized Trial.