Chevron olecranon osteotomy and fixation with kirschner wires and tension band in the surgical treatment of distal humeral fractures in adults: clinical evaluation of 32 cases
Abstract
Objective. This study aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes and complications after olecranon osteotomy for complex distal humerus fractures.
Methods. We retrospectively reviewed adult patients with AO/OTA 13-C fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation via olecranon osteotomy from 2005 to 2015. Thirty-two patients were assessed clinically and radiographically, and functional outcomes were measured using the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) at a mean follow-up of 10 years.
Results. Olecranon osteotomy for complex distal humerus fractures produced mostly positive outcomes: 84% of patients had excellent or good MEPS results. Mean flexion-extension was 100° (range 10°-130°). By fracture type, 100% of C1, 69% of C2, and 90% of C3 had excellent/good results. Complications included nonunion (1), implant prominence (10), heterotopic ossification (2), and ulnar nerve entrapment (2). The purpose of our study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes of patients with type C fractures treated surgically with Chevron olecranon osteotomy.
Conclusions. Olecranon osteotomy provides adequate exposure and, with stable fixation and early rehabilitation, yields good long-term results with manageable complications. The retrospective design and small sample size are limitations of the study.
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© © Ortopedici Traumatologi Ospedalieri d’Italia (O.T.O.D.i.) , 2026
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