Plate fixation of comminuted olecranon fractures: an in vitro biomechanical study.

The stiffness, cyclic stability, and failure strength of posterior and lateral plating were compared in an in vitro model of a comminuted olecranon fracture. Loading was applied to the brachialis and triceps while displacements of the olecranon were measured with an electromagnetic tracking device in six degrees of freedom. No statistical difference was seen in the cyclic or static stability of either plating method. The triceps tendon suture attachment failed during destructive testing in each case between 300 and 500 N of applied loading. No gross failure of the bony fixation of the implant occurred before suture failure. These results suggest that both plating methods are likely to afford adequate stability to permit early protected postoperative range of motion.