Cost minimization analysis of the treatment of olecranon fracture in elderly patients: a retrospective analysis

Abstract

Background:Operative treatment of olecranon fractures in the elderly can lead to greater complications with similar outcomes to nonoperative treatment. The purpose of this study was to analyze cost differences between operative and nonoperative management of isolated closed olecranon fractures in elderly patients. Methods:Using a United States Medicare claims database, the authors identified 570 operative and 1,863 nonoperative olecranon fractures between 2005 and 2014. The authors retrospectively determined cost of treatment from the payor perspective for a 1-year period after initial injury, including any surgical procedure, emergency room care, follow-up care, physical therapy, and management of complications.