Olecranon Fractures Managed Using FiberWire Sutures Without Metallic Implants: A Case Study and a Review of the Literature.

Abstract

The traditional standard of care, tension band wire fixation modalities commonly used to treat non-comminuted olecranon fractures, are frequently associated with complications, with symptomatic hardware being the most common issue, often necessitating subsequent surgical procedures for hardware removal. We present a case of a young, active gentleman who sustained a simple olecranon fracture (Mayo type IIA) and underwent open reduction with the innovative all-suture non-metallic internal fixation procedure. We used a low-profile, cost-effective alternative fracture fixation technique, following the principles of pre-existing surgical techniques, while utilizing FiberWire sutures with biomechanical properties equivalent to, or possibly superior to, conventionally used metallic wires, thereby eliminating the need for additional surgical intervention. Furthermore, we reviewed the literature for similar reported cases and highlighted their results and outcomes.