Quantifying and comparing torsional strains after olecranon plating.

Purpose: Any torsion experienced at a fracture site will directly translate into shearing forces and has been regarded as detrimental to healing. The purpose of this study was to determine which plating system currently on the market controls torsional forces about comminuted olecranon fractures most effectively.

Methods: Five olecranon plates (Acumed, Synthes-SS, Synthes-Ti, ITS/US Implants and Zimmer) were implanted to stabilise a simulated comminuted fracture pattern in 50 fresh-frozen, cadaveric elbows.

Comparison of olecranon plate fixation in osteoporotic bone: do current technologies and designs make a difference?

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine if recent innovations in olecranon plates have any advantages in stabilizing osteoporotic olecranon fractures.

Methods: Five olecranon plates (Acumed, Synthes-SS, Synthes-Ti, US Implants/ITS, and Zimmer) were implanted to stabilize a simulated comminuted fracture pattern in 30 osteoporotic cadaveric elbows. Specimens were randomized by bone mineral density per dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan.