Orthonotes
Orthonotes
by the.bonestories
v3.0 Fusion
v3.0 Fusion
trauma topic hub

Proximal Ulna/Olecranon — Tension Band Wiring (TBW)

Indication: simple, non-comminuted transverse olecranon fractures (AO 21-B1) with intact dorsal cortex. Principle: converts triceps tensile force into compression at the articular fracture line during elbow flexion. Technique: two parallel K-wires + figure-of-8 wire anterior to axis. Avoid in comminution, osteoporosis, or Monteggia — plate preferred. Complications: hardware prominence, wire migration, loss of reduction, stiffness.

Overview

Topic summary

View wiki
Indication: simple, non-comminuted transverse olecranon fractures (AO 21-B1) with intact dorsal cortex. Principle: converts triceps tensile force into compression at the articular fracture line during elbow flexion. Technique: two parallel K-wires + figure-of-8 wire anterior to axis. Avoid in comminution, osteoporosis, or Monteggia — plate preferred. Complications: hardware prominence, wire migration, loss of reduction, stiffness.
Cases

Clinical case discussions

Browse all cases
MCQs

High-yield practice questions

Start topic quiz
Question 1

What is the primary indication for using tension band wiring (TBW) in olecranon fractures?

Question 2

What principle does tension band wiring (TBW) utilize during elbow flexion?

Question 3

Which of the following is a complication of tension band wiring for olecranon fractures?

Question 4

In which scenario is tension band wiring (TBW) NOT recommended?

Question 5

What is the role of the figure-of-eight wire in tension band wiring for olecranon fractures?

Question 6

What type of fracture pattern is typically associated with indirect trauma to the olecranon?

Question 7

What is the first step in the surgical technique for tension band wiring of an olecranon fracture?

Question 8

What type of imaging is most commonly used to evaluate olecranon fractures?

Question 9

What is a common clinical feature of an olecranon fracture?

Question 10

What is the preferred surgical management for a stable displaced olecranon fracture?