K-wire position in tension-band wiring technique affects stability of wires and long-term outcome in surgical treatment of olecranon fractures.

Background: Tension-band wiring (TBW) has been accepted as the treatment of choice for displaced olecranon fractures. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of K-wire position on instability of the K-wires in relation to local complications and radiological and clinical long-term outcome.

Methods: We reviewed the early follow-up of 59 patients (mean age, 60 years) who underwent TBW osteosynthesis for displaced olecranon fractures.