Background
In this study, we aimed to compare the stability of traditional tension band wiring (TBW) and screw combined TBW (SC‐TBW) fixation methods performed for a transverse olecranon osteotomy‐fracture during different degrees of elbow movement by using finite element analysis.
Methods
Three‐dimensional solid modeling of the olecranon was obtained by computed tomography images. Transverse olecranon fracture was created and fixed by TBW and SC‐TBW with respect to triceps muscle force. Opening angle, twisting angle and interplanar translation occurring on the fracture line were evaluated at 45° and 90° elbow flexion.
Results
Opening angle: 0.71°, 0.87° at 45° and 0.64°, 0.67° at 90° elbow flexion for TBW and SC‐TBW, respectively. Twisting angle: −0.01°, −0.19° at 45° flexion and 0.19°, 0.30° at 90° flexion for TBW and SC‐TBW, respectively. Interplanar translation: 1.93 mm, 4.65 mm at 45° flexion and 1.78 mm, 3.95 mm at 90° flexion for TBW and SC‐TBW, respectively.
Conclusion
TBW fixation provides more stability than SC‐TBW fixation model.