Functional Recovery After Non-Operative Management of a Failed Olecranon Fracture Fixation: A Case Report.

Articles in Press

Document Type : CASE REPORT

Authors

1 Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University

2 Rothman Orthopaedics Florida at AdventHealth, Orlando, FL

3 Rothman Orthopaedics Florida at AdventHealth

10.22038/abjs.2025.92034.4172

Abstract

An 85-year-old female walker dependent presented with a displaced olecranon fracture following a fall. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using an anatomic olecranon locking plate was performed. Two-week postoperative X-rays revealed fixation failure with persistent fragment displacement and a wide fracture gap. To manage this condition, non-operative management, including sling immobilization for 4 weeks and progressive physical therapy, was pursued with the elbow at 90 degrees flexion. At the 6-month follow-up, the elbow was pain-free with functional range of motion (ROM) being achieved, and functional independence was observed in daily activities including using a walker. This case highlights the potential for successful functional recovery through non-operative management in geriatric patients as an initial treatment or after a failed ORIF, emphasizing the importance of tailoring treatment to patient-specific factors and functional goals over radiographic outcomes.

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 May 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 16 October 2025
  • Revise Date:
  • Accept Date: 15 November 2025

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