Aseptic Pseudoarthrosis of Olecranon: Epidemiological Features and Therapeutic Assessment

Introduction: Pseudoarthrosis is one of the most dreadful complications of olecranon fractures. It seriously compromises the function of the elbow. Objectives: To determine the epidemiological factors of this complication in order to prevent them and to assess the results of the therapeutic management. Material and method: This was a retrospective study that involved patients with olecranon pseudoarthrosis who were treated in the department between January 2006 and December 2016. The diagnosis of pseudoarthrosis was made at least 6 months after the management of the fracture. There were 16 men and 5 women. We analyzed the epidemiological factors, the treatment of pseudoarthrosis, and the postoperative outcome. Results: The incriminated factors were the complexity of the fracture line and the quality of treatment of the recent fracture. The osteosynthesis of pseudoarthrosis is similar to that of recent fractures. It requires in some cases a bone graft. The results of the treatment are satisfactory with 100% of consolidation, and a good functional result in 75% of the cases. Conclusion: The treatment of olecranon pseudoarthrosis is based above all on prevention by an optimal management of the recent fractures. The curative treatment gives satisfactory functional results.