Hardware Complications following Plate Fixation of the Olecranon

Description

The presentation focuses on a study assessing the re-operation rates following plate fixation of the olecranon using contoured anatomic plates, highlighting the contributions of several key researchers. Dr. Charles Bouchard outlines the study background, noting that olecranon fractures account for approximately 10% of extremity fractures, often resulting from direct trauma or fall impacts. The research employs a retrospective chart review from 2010 to 2015, with primary focus on complications linked to plate fixation, particularly hardware irritation. Initial findings indicate a lower hardware removal rate of 15.6%, with significant correlations found between the need for reoperations and certain fracture types, including Monteggia and Mayo type 3 fractures. The presentation elucidates that younger patients are more likely to require hardware removal, emphasizing the importance of setting patient expectations prior to treatment. Potential future directions for the study include comparative analyses in prospective studies to further investigate these findings.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-210208

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