Triceps Rupture After Olecranon Fixation with Proximal Ulna Plate and Suture Augmentation: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2023 Aug 17;13(3). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.23.00179. eCollection 2023 Jul 1.

Abstract

Case: Olecranon fractures treated with proximal ulna plate fixation and repairing the triceps with suture augmentation to the plate decrease the risk of "olecranon escape," but may lead to failure through triceps rupture. In this case report, a rare complication of triceps rupture occurred, and the patient underwent triceps repair.

Conclusion: When fixing olecranon fractures, surgeons should minimize triceps dissection for hardware placement. If subjected to significant force, a surgical insult to the tendon footprint for a better plate contact on the bone and the presence of suture augmentation may change the construct failure mechanism and result in triceps rupture as opposed to fracture redisplacement.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Epiphyses
  • Humans
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Olecranon Process* / surgery
  • Sutures
  • Tendons
  • Ulna Fractures* / surgery